Project REBUILD

What is your mission and who do you serve?
Project REBUILD has been a pillar of youth empowerment in Stark County since 1999. We were created to take on some significant challenges—like low graduation rates and high unemployment among young people—and over 25 years later, we’re still showing up every day to make a difference.

Our mission is to provide education, work readiness training, mentorship, and holistic support to young people who are ready to turn things around and build a better future. We believe every young person has value and potential—and with a mix of love, accountability, and opportunity, they can achieve amazing things.

Our flagship program, YouthBuild Greater Stark County (YBGSC), is a nine-month paid training experience for young adults ages 16–24 who are facing barriers like dropping out of school, being involved in the court or foster care system, or struggling to find stable employment. Through hands-on training, leadership development, and counseling, they earn credentials, build skills, and open doors to jobs, college, or career pathways. And we stick with them—offering graduate support to make sure they keep moving forward.

We’re proud of the impact YBGSC has had: improved literacy, industry credentials, reduced recidivism, and real stories of young people breaking negative cycles and stepping into their power.

What is one thing someone might not know about your organization or is unique about your organization?
One thing people might not know about Project REBUILD is just how much love and accountability are baked into everything we do. We’re not just a training program—we’re a family. We build strong relationships with our young people and walk alongside them, not just for the nine months they’re enrolled, but well beyond.

Another thing that makes us unique is that our members give back to the community while they’re building themselves up. Whether it’s renovating houses, growing food at the community garden, or mentoring younger kids, they’re making a real impact right here in Stark County.

It’s powerful to watch young people realize they’re not just receiving support—they are the support. That’s the kind of transformation we get to witness every day.

How do you work in partnership with the OhioMeansJobs Centers?
We’ve got a strong partnership with OhioMeansJobs Centers, and they play a key role in helping us support our participants. Project REBUILD is a contracted provider through OMJ, and we operate a CCMEP (Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program) for young adults.

That means we work closely together to connect youth to the wraparound services they need—like transportation, childcare, and job placement support—while they’re building their education and career skills through our program. OMJ helps fund and refer eligible participants, and we stay in sync to make sure our young people are progressing and have what they need to succeed.

It’s a true collaboration focused on removing barriers and opening doors!

Visit their website for more information: https://projectrebuild.org