Called the Builders of Tomorrow program, it is the city's latest effort to steer young people from difficult circumstances onto the right track by opening up apprenticeships in the construction trades to them.
The first five young men have just completed the course in carpentry and a second, larger group began the 14 week training sessions this week.
The Police Athletic League, building agencies and construction companies put the program together with the aide of some kick-start money from the federal government. Cynthia Mumford of Triple A Builders says it offers a tremendous opportunity to youth who want to plan ahead.
Cynthia Mumford: "This isn't just something that's good for today. It's also something that's going to be good for the future. So this program is actually structured to build legacies - and that's what we're trying to do here."
Besides basic carpentry, the youth were taught diverse construction skills including lead abatement and some electrical work - and even budget management. Some will continue on now towards acquiring Ohio licenses in construction fields.
More than 100 young men have already applied for the program's next sessions. Organizers hope more resources can be found for the program in the future.
