Youth Programs

 AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps is a network of local, state, and national service programs that connects over 70,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet community needs in education, the environment, public safety, health, and homeland security. AmeriCorps services are provided in collaboration with the YouthBuild program.

Members serve in part-time positions over a 6-9 month period. Upon completion of their service, members receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of up to $1,473 to pay for college, or technical schools, since they are part-time members. Members also have access to other benefits such as: health insurance, child care, training, and participant loan forbearance during their service once hours are obtained.

Call 225-562-2452 for more information.

Youth Build

Through funding made possible by DOL and St. James Parish, Youthbuild provides disadvantage youth ages 16-24 with an opportunity to transform their lives, get back on track to adult responsibility, and give back to their communities.

Participants have an opportunity to achieve one or more of the following:

  • Earn a high school equivalency credentials in a caring individualized context;
  • Obtain job skills and earn a stipend;
  • Gain industry recognized certifications in preparation for production careers
  • Transition into post program placements, in college, registered apprenticeships, other post-secondary opportunities and employment
  • Supportive services inclusive of child care, tuition assistance, driver’s license, work credential cards, etc. 

Participants must be low-income youths between the ages of 16-24 that is either a high school drop-out, skills deficiency a basic skill deficiency.

Participants are enrolled in 6-9 months sessions dedicated to preparing them for the HISET certification and NCCER construction training. Additional trainings include, but are not limited to OSHA. TWIC, and FIRST-AID/CPR.

Eligible: Low-income youths between the ages of 16-24 that is either a high school drop-out or received a certificate with a basic skill deficiency. Eligible Services: 6-9 months for obtainment of community service hours.

Call 225-562-2312 for more information.

Youth Commission

DHR, CAA works with nine Youth Commissioners who are appointed by their respective councilmen, with two at large seat.  These youth serve as advocates for the youth and learn the internal workings of government.   As a Commissioner they work in partnership with the DHR, CAA. The role is to ensure that young people are involved and engaged in governing decisions that shapes experience locally and to empower young people to share their ideas and have a meaningful voice in planning, implementing and reviewing their program and opportunities.