Junction, California
California Heritage YouthBuild Academy was only a dream ten years ago. It was born out of the realization that there were young people in Shasta County who were not successful in the traditional public school setting. These soon-to-be adults faced significant barriers to their success in a society that required a high school diploma and job-ready skills. CHYBA opened its doors in September 2012 with six students.
Implementing the YouthBuild model, CHYBA has been successful in working with students from challenging backgrounds, many with multiple Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACES. By offering a California high school diploma or GED, training in construction trades and other career pathways, community involvement, and personal growth, CHYBA partners with young people to offer successful pathways to success.
YouthBuild Mentoring is a strong component of its program, pairing students with community members interested in helping young people develop professional and leadership skills.
CHYBA is able to offer these opportunities because of supportive community and community partners, such as Hill Country Health and Wellness, Shasta Builders Exchange, Youth and Family programs, Shasta College, and many more.
CHYBA is a unique program offering an avenue to success by stepping into its vision of “Rebuilding Community. Rebuilding Our Lives.” Students leave CHYBA with increased self-confidence, an idea of what they want to do with their lives, an awareness of their community and how they can be involved, and basic skills for entering the job market. In addition, even after graduation, they always have a home with CHYBA.
