Project BUILD Summer Program
Project BUILD, a City-County funded gang prevention and intervention program, just completed a fun-filled summer program chockfull of cooking classes, college tours, skills training, outdoor activities and other experiences. "Our goal was to give these youth an unforgettable summer with many opportunities to enlarge their worlds," said Michelle Young, program director for Project BUILD. "We wanted them to be physically active, try new things, and have fun, while learning skills that will benefit them throughout their lives." An average of 15 youth participated each day. These youth, who are at high risk of gang activity, received plenty of interaction with staff, thereby building interpersonal skills and tightening social bonds. In many ways, the activities tied closely with the County's strategic goals, like Environmental Stewardship. "I think our kids would say that one of the coolest things they did was a night hike at Jordan Lake where they learned about all kinds of wildlife and plant life," Young said. "We also strongly emphasized recycling and making sure that we took care of these outdoor places." Learn more about Project BUILD at its website or on Twitter.
