People. Progress. Possibility.
Inside YBLC.
Get closer to the people, ideas, and partnerships moving our mission forward. This is where our stories come together.
Take a closer look
Our latest annual report
A year of progress.
A shared future.
Meet the people behind the milestones. Our 2026 Annual Report brings together the stories, partnerships, and progress your support makes possible.
Read the 2026 Annual ReportSuccess stories
Meet the people turning opportunity into a new chapter.
Class of 2023
LaQuon
LaQuon built on years of hard work to become a carpenter with ReNew Communities, helping create affordable housing and a stronger future for his family.
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Class of 2024
Jackie
Jackie earned her diploma, turned a hospital internship into a healthcare career, and returned to encourage future interns.
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Class of 2023
Juan
Juan discovered renewable energy through YBLC’s Pre-Apprentice and Solar Installer training, then joined Arch Electric as a solar panel installer.
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Meet our gradsNews & newsletters
The latest coverage and updates from the YBLC community.
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View all news & newslettersInsights & perspectives
A closer look at the ideas and work behind our mission.
Insights & Perspectives
What is YBLC’s Success Ceremony? 6 Ways It’s Different Than a Graduation
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Explore all insights & perspectivesThe Need for YouthBuild
Lake County needs
paths to a diploma.
A high school credential can open the door to work and further education. Too many of our neighbors still need an accessible way to take that next step.
Education
A path forward should be within reach.
of North Chicago adults age 25 and older do not have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Education barriers can limit access to work, training, and financial stability. A second chance can change what comes next.
Explore YouthBuildCalculated from U.S. Census ACS 2020–2024: 100% minus 81.2% with a high school credential.
Workforce
Talent is here. Opportunity should be, too.
Lake County young adults ages 16–24 were disconnected from school and work.
Young people need pathways back into education and employment, with training, experience, and employers ready to open a door.
Explore career pathwaysLake County youth disconnection study, 2024 · 2022 estimate
Housing
A home should be a foundation.
of North Chicago renter households spend 30% or more of their income on housing.
When housing stretches a household’s budget, less remains for food, transportation, and other essentials. Affordable homes help create stability.
Explore our housing workCMAP / DePaul IHS, 2025 · ACS 2019–2023. Includes cost-burdened and severely cost-burdened renters with calculable housing costs.
Families & community
A stronger future begins with stability.
of North Chicago residents live below the poverty line.
Financial pressure affects more than a paycheck. Families need access to education, work, and practical support to build lasting stability.
Learn about our missionU.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts · North Chicago · accessed November 2026