Everychild 2009 Grant: South Bay Community Development Center

This agency received the Everychild grant for the purpose of helping at-risk, disconnected youth through a comprehensive set of skill-building, academic, and character-development initiatives; directed toward re-engaging young adults in career-focused, peer-supported learning. Participants first entered in pre-pathway coaching and training programs that are then linked to the organization’s highly successful career pathways. They completed the programs prepared for high-wage employment in the energy sector, classroom teaching, and design and media arts.

Students were able to succeed due to the unparalleled access to career and academic resources, as well as supportive adult mentoring and the opportunity to develop solid peer relationships. Many of SBCC’s Everychild-supported youth career-development initiatives led to the participants’ enrollment in full career pathways or gainful employment following graduation.