Empowering At-Risk Youth: Quad County Urban League’s YouthBuild Program with Penn Foster

Posted by Peter Sorensen on October 7, 2024


As part of its mission to support at-risk youth, the Quad County Urban League (QCUL) is making a real difference through its YouthBuild initiative, powered by Penn Foster’s online High School program. This initiative offers an equitable and promising path for students who might feel like their educational dreams are slipping away. Whether they've had to drop out of high school because of life's challenges or have fallen behind in credits, QCUL’s program gives these young people a second chance—a chance to rewrite their stories and take control of their futures.

 

Young man wearing red headphones using laptop computer in community space.

Quad County Urban League: Holistic educational support

The QCUL YouthBuild program offers more than just a chance to earn Penn Foster’s accredited high school diploma. It's a well-rounded support system aimed at giving students the skills they need to succeed in the future. By blending academics with hands-on vocational training, students aren’t just finishing their high school education - they're gearing up for rewarding careers in high-demand fields. During the program, learners also receive tailored support from case managers and tutors, equipping them to overcome academic and personal challenges.

 

Small steps to student success

The success of the YouthBuild program highlights its impact and the determination of students who have embraced their second chance at education. So far, out of the 20 Penn Foster learners who have enrolled, two are still actively working on their studies, while 18 have already graduated. Among those graduates, two even secured scholarships to a 4-year university, helping them to continue their educational journey.

 

One of the most impressive things about the QCUL learners is how quickly they finish their high school diplomas. Most students in the QCUL program complete the program in just 6-9 months, which is a huge achievement given the obstacles they’ve overcome. This quick progress not only shows how efficient the program is but also reflects the learners' commitment and drive to make the most of their opportunity.

 

By earning their diplomas in such a short time, these students can quickly get back on track and move forward confidently, whether they choose to continue their education, start working, or pursue other goals.

 

But beyond these impressive numbers, it’s important to remember that each statistic represents a personal story of perseverance, transformation, and triumph. Each graduate embodies the program’s power to unlock potential, turning what once might have seemed like an unreachable dream into a reality.

 

Empowering individuals with opportunities for education

By offering students a second chance at education combined with vocational training and personalized support, QCUL is doing more than just helping students recover lost credits; it is providing them with the tools and opportunities to forge brighter, more secure futures. These students are given the chance to rewrite their stories, and as they graduate, they do so armed not only with the skills and knowledge necessary for success but also with a newfound confidence that propels them toward their chosen paths. In turn, they become valuable contributors to a stronger, more resilient community, helping to uplift those around them as they move forward.

 

How the program benefits the community, not just individual students

The ripple effects of this program extend far beyond the individual learners, creating a legacy of empowerment and opportunity that resonates throughout the entire community. Each student who graduates from the program carries forward the positive influence of QCUL’s support, becoming a role model and a source of inspiration for others who may face similar challenges. This cycle of success helps to foster a culture of continuous improvement and resilience, where individuals are not only encouraged to pursue their dreams but are also equipped with the resources and support, they need to achieve them.

 

Through its unwavering dedication to the success of its students, Quad County Urban League is building more than just educated individuals; it is laying the groundwork for a community that thrives on collaboration, mutual support, and a shared vision of a better tomorrow. The impact of the YouthBuild program is felt not just in the lives of its graduates, but in the strength and resilience of the community as a whole—a testament to the power of education, support, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed.

 

Prepare for the future today with Penn Foster

If you’re interested in providing an education to your learners that will last a lifetime, Penn Foster's online high school program is a great choice. This self-paced, regionally and nationally accredited program allows learners to earn their diploma on their own schedule. Whether you're focused on helping young people, adults, or your community's workforce, you can improve outcomes by connecting with our training experts today.