YouthBuild FAQ's & Application
The Cloud and Fire YouthBuild program is an exciting opportunity for youth ages 17-24 in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles to finish high school (or earn a GED) in our Charter School and learn construction skills at the same time. Youth in the program also learn how to become dynamic leaders in the community.
How can I participate in YouthBuild?
Cloud and Fire typically accepts applications for YouthBuild only during the spring and summer months. All new students must begin in August and attend Mental Toughness in order to qualify for YouthBuild. See the 'How do I apply for YouthBuild' section for details and schedules.
What is the purpose of YouthBuild?
YouthBuild helps young people who have lost their way get back on track. In YouthBuild, students earn their high school diploma or GED and learn hands-on construction at the same time. They also receive leadership development, counseling, and career exploration as part of the program. Additionally, YouthBuild provides a place where young people have positive role models and develop friendships that will last a lifetime.
How long is the YouthBuild program?
The program is 10 months long. Mental Toughness begins in August, and the program ends in June. Some youth who do not finish high school within 10 months may qualify for summer programs or may be invited back for a second year of YouthBuild.
What are the requirements for YouthBuild?
YouthBuild is open to youth between ages 17 and 24 who have not yet finished high school. All applicants must be able to find transportation to the program, and must be physically capable of doing construction work.
What is the cost for YouthBuild?
The Cloud and Fire YouthBuild program is free to all young people who qualify and meet the application requirements and who complete the Mental Toughness orientation program.
Where is YouthBuild located?
There are over 200 YouthBuild locations in the United States. The Cloud and Fire YouthBuild program is located at 15226 Parthenia Street #2, North Hills, CA 91343.
How many students will be in my YouthBuild program?
In the 2011-12 school year, Cloud and Fire will accept approximately 50 students into Mental Toughness. After Mental Toughness, 30 youth will be invited into the YouthBuild program.
Where will I go to school?
The Cloud and Fire YouthBuild works with John Muir Charter Schools, an agency that brings Charter Schools to many of the YouthBuild programs in California. John Muir will provide the education component at the Cloud and Fire Youth Center, which is located at 15226 Parthenia Street, North Hills, CA 91343.
When I finish YouthBuild, will I have a diploma or a GED?
Every YouthBuild student has a unique educational background. Factors such as the number of high school credits you have already earned and how quickly you work on your class material will determine whether you earn your diploma or GED. The good news is that every YouthBuild student in the Cloud and Fire program (up to age 24) has the opportunity to receive a real diploma!
What is Mental Toughness?
Mental Toughness is a month-long orientation program for YouthBuild. During Mental Toughness, YouthBuild students learn about work ethic, dedication, self-discipline, and how to work as a team.
If I attend Mental Toughness, am I automatically accepted in YouthBuild?
No. During Mental Toughness, staff will determine which students are best suited for the YouthBuild program. Only 30 students will be invited to stay in the YouthBuild program.
Do I get paid for being in YouthBuild?
Participants in the Cloud and Fire YouthBuild do not get paid for being in the program. However, we know it is difficult for older youth to set aside time to finish high school, so Cloud and Fire provides a living allowance of $10/day for every student.
Who will teach construction to me?
YouthBuild provides hands-on construction training. Cloud and Fire’s YouthBuild Construction Manager is a licensed contractor. The Construction Manager has 20 years of experience in the construction industry.
Where does the construction take place?
YouthBuild participants will help build apartments and classrooms for formerly homeless women and children who live at Hope Gardens in Sylmar, CA. Hope Gardens is part of the Union Rescue Mission.
How is Cloud and Fire’s YouthBuild program unique?
Cloud and Fire is a Christian ministry that helps transform the lives of urban youth. Cloud and Fire’s YouthBuild program meets all the requirements of YouthBuild U.S.A., and also offers the benefits of a faith-based atmosphere to its youth participants.
How do I apply for YouthBuild?
There are three steps to the YouthBuild application process:
1. Application: Return your completed YouthBuild application to Cloud and Fire
2. Orientation: Attend a two-hour YouthBuild orientation meeting
3. Interview: You must successfully complete an interview with YouthBuild staff
1. Application
To start the YouthBuild application process, you may call, visit in person, or download the YouthBuild application. Bring the completed application and necessary documents to Cloud and Fire.
Items needed to apply for YouthBuild:
- Photo ID (Passport, driver’s license, or California ID).
- Official High School Transcripts
- Immunization record
- Completed YouthBuild application packet
Bring the completed application and required items in person to the Cloud and Fire Youth Center. Directions to the center are available on the Contact page.
2. Orientation
Attend a YouthBuild Information Orientation. See dates below. You may also wish to call Cloud and Fire at 818-920-0101 or email us for additional orientation dates.
2011 Cloud and Fire YouthBuild Orientation Dates
Thursday, July 7 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, July 14 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, July 21 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, July 28 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 4 at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 18 at 10:00 a.m.
Please call us at 818-920-0101 to register to attend an Orientation session.
Please note: All dates are subject to change. Please call for updates or check the events calendar.
3. YouthBuild Interviews
Interviews will be scheduled by our Registrar after you return your completed application and attend a YouthBuild orientation meeting.
2010 YouthBuild Enrollment Schedule
May 15-August 15 YouthBuild applications accepted
June 15-August 20 YouthBuild interviews
August 30-September 2 Mental Toughness (mandatory)
September 6 YouthBuild Program begins
