Job Training for At-Risk Youth in Southeast Los Angeles

The Edward Byrne Memorial Discretionary Grants Program (Byrne Discretionary Program) helps local communities improve the capacity of local justice systems and provides for national support efforts. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 08 Congressional Budget. Funds should be used for purposes recommended by Congress.

The LA Conservation Corps seeks to address problems youth face by integrating a paid work program with a high school diploma program, support, and transition services. The organization prevents youth from dropping out of school, joining gangs or ending up in the juvenile justice system by preparing them for survival in today's economy. The Corps serves Latino (64%) and African American (35%) youth from the neighborhoods of South and East LA, including areas of the 39th Congressional District.

Funding will support a corpsmember work crew and allow the organization to recruit more local youth for work and education programs and complete public works projects in the District. Progress will be measured by the job skills and leadership experiences corpsmembers gain and the number of youth that secure employment or enroll in post-secondary instruction upon leaving the program.

NCA/NCF