Thanks to their commitment to this program, these young men and women will transition back into the community better prepared to assume the responsibilities of positive and productive citizenship. This accomplishment fits in well within the YouthBuild and DAWN programs’ ultimate goals of education and reducing recidivism by arming adults with necessary skills and teaching them a trade “to build a future” and obtain gainful employment.

During the ceremony, the graduates will hear from the valedictorians of each program and community leaders and mentors. The students will be encouraged to defy the stereotypes and odds placed on them for having been incarcerated - soaring to new heights to reach their goals.

About DAWN

The DAWN program provides GED, life skills and vocational preparation classes necessary to assist sentenced males (18-24) and females (18 and up) to successfully reintegrate into society when released from detention. As a result, students are returned to the community with a stronger positive attitude and commitment to serve as productive citizens, thus reducing recidivism.

About YouthBuild

YouthBuild is a comprehensive youth and development program that simultaneously addresses a variety of core issues facing low-income communities. These issues include the lack of education, housing and leadership development. YouthBuild provides GED instruction, job readiness and job placement. On-site counseling, life skills, behavior management and construction skills are also available for participants. The program creates an environment that motivates incarcerated male youth ages 16 to 24 and gives them the opportunity to succeed.

To learn more about the YouthBuild and DAWN programs visit www.coj.net or call (904) 630-CITY.