Youth Summer Program

The Summer Build Academy is an 8-week program and the core of DB4E's youth-driven community transformation. Participants ages 16–24 gain essential tools, resources, and support to thrive and lead in all aspects of life. Throughout the summer, youth develop life and professional skills and document their journey through journaling. Their writings are published in a book, with proceeds going directly to the youth. Following the academy, participants are matched with mentors, have the opportunity to earn money through DB4E projects and teaching chess, attend monthly events, and access free therapy year-round.

Our Summer Cohort is organized into four levels: Academy, Pre-Apprenticeship, Fellows, and Leadership.

Academy · First-Year Dream Builders

The Academy is the entry point into our organization. Our goal for first-year participants is to build confidence, discover new opportunities, and develop foundational skills.

First-year activities include:

• Financial literacy

• Personal and professional development

• Introduction to real estate and urban planning

• College, university, trade school, and union tours

• Public speaking and presenting

• Mental health and wellness

Pre-Apprenticeship · Second Year

Pre-Apprenticeship participants are sharpening the skills learned in year one and actively working toward post-secondary education and/or career goals.

Pre-Apprenticeship activities include:

• Entrepreneurship projects

• Post-secondary planning

• Construction safety and job readiness

• OSHA certification

• Mock interviewing

• Job and scholarship research

Fellows -  Third Year  (Young adults 18+ with interest in trades and construction)

Fellows learn from industry professionals and actively build the skills needed to launch careers in the trades.

Fellows' activities include:

• NCCER training and certification

• Hands-on training on DB4E projects

• Networking

• Introduction to investing and wealth building

Leadership Cohort

Leadership Cohort members take the skills developed over their time in the program and put them into action in the community.

Leadership activities include: 

• Teaching chess at a summer camp

• Canvassing the community, conducting needs assessments

• Leading community clean-up efforts

• Developing leadership and public speaking skills

• Introduction to investing and wealth building

If you are interested in joining our program, please click the link below and complete the interest form