Under Instruction Academy
Discover Your Potential, Build Your Future
The Under Instruction Academy is the entry point into Hood Huggers Foundation's workforce development continuum.
Designed for middle and high school students, this program introduces young people to career possibilities while building the essential soft skills employers value most.
Through weekly sessions focused on community improvement projects, participants explore fields like environmental stewardship, community design, creative arts, and sustainable development—all while discovering how they can make a real impact in their neighborhoods.
Ages 12-17
Once weekly for 3 hours
Incentivized internship format
Program Overview
The Under Instruction Academy blends professional development, hands-on learning, and real-world exposure to fields like environmental stewardship, community design, creative arts, and sustainable development. Through community improvement projects, you'll strengthen essential soft skills—communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving—while discovering the impact you can make in your neighborhoods and beyond.
The program sparks curiosity about future careers, cultivates a spirit of service, and lays the foundation for success in advanced employment programs.
Program Highlights
Career exploration in environmental stewardship, community design, creative arts, and sustainable development
Professional skills including communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving
Hands-on projects that make a real difference in your community
Personalized support from dedicated HHF case managers
Leadership development through service learning and civic engagement
Clear pathways to advanced workforce programs
Frequently Asked Questions
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No prior experience is required. The Academy is designed as an entry point for youth at any stage of career awareness.
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No, the program is free to participants and includes incentives for active participation.
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Your case manager will work with you to stay on track. Consistent attendance helps you get the most from the program.
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The Academy is designed as a first step. After completing the Academy, you can advance to other programs in the continuum.
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Just bring yourself and an open mind! Your case manager will provide all necessary materials and information during orientation.
Program Structure
Two Age Tracks
Ages 12-14 Track Once weekly for 3 hours | Incentivized internship Focus: Career exploration and foundational soft skills
Ages 15-17 Track Once weekly for 3 hours | Incentivized internship Focus: Advanced career readiness and leadership development
What You'll Focus On
Professional skill development in real-world settings
Community improvement projects and service learning
Career exploration across multiple fields
Leadership in action and civic engagement
Goal-setting and personal growth
Support Every Step of the Way
Every Academy participant is paired with an HHF case manager who provides ongoing check-ins, connects you to resources, and helps you set meaningful goals. At this stage, case management focuses on academic success, social-emotional growth, and early career awareness—ensuring you have the support you need to explore, learn, and plan your next steps with confidence.
Your Next Steps
The Academy is Just the Beginning
The Academy prepares you for the next stage of your journey. Graduates can continue into more intensive programs, each offering deeper skill-building, leadership development, and pathways to employment:
YouthBuild CORE-2 - Full-time workforce preparation and education
Under Instruction Long-Term Recovery Cohort - Hands-on construction training through community service
Under Instruction Referral Program - Direct job placement and career connections
Everybody Huddle Up! - Youth leadership, policy, and advocacy