Empowering Futures: Section 3 YouthBuild

Breanna

At Rockford Housing Authority, our commitment to community empowerment continues with the Section III YouthBuild Rockford program. This initiative is designed to help low-income young adults gain valuable construction skills and job readiness training while also giving back to their neighborhoods. 

Section III Overview 
Section III of the Housing and Urban Development Act ensures that economic opportunities generated by HUD funds are directed to low-income individuals and local businesses. The YouthBuild component is an innovative extension focused on guiding young adults (ages 16–24) toward self-sufficiency through education and employment pathways. 

Youth Empowerment in Action 
Participants receive hands-on training in construction and other trades while working on real community improvement projects. In addition to workforce skills, the program emphasizes leadership development, teamwork, and civic responsibility, laying the foundation for lifelong success. 

Compliance and Contact 
Stephanie Summers, RHA’s Section 3 Compliance Manager, ensures every program meets federal standards and community goals. For more information or to get involved, contact her at ssummers@rockfordha.org. 

Section 3 YouthBuild is more than a program—it’s a movement toward equity and opportunity. Join us in building a stronger Rockford, one empowered youth at a time.