Under Instruction Referral Program

Your Next Step Into the Workforce

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.

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Ages 18+

  • Flexible engagement

  • Employer-paid opportunities

Program Overview

The UI Referral Program functions as a career connector, linking participants to employers who provide hands-on job training and leadership development in real-world settings. Unlike a structured cohort, this track moves at the pace of your career goals.

Case managers stay engaged on a biweekly or monthly basis, monitoring your progress, helping resolve challenges, and connecting you to additional training or support resources as your career develops.

Program Highlights

  • Job placement with local employers and community partners across Asheville and Buncombe County

  • Paid opportunities including training, internships, and direct employment

  • Priority placement for UI-LTRC and Academy alumni

  • Personalized support from dedicated HHF case managers

  • Flexible engagement that adapts to your schedule and employer partnership

  • Clear pathways to long-term employment and career advancement

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. While alumni of the Academy and Long-Term Recovery Cohort receive priority placement, the Referral Program is open to any eligible young adult ages 18 and older.

  • No. The program is free to join. Compensation is provided directly through employer partnerships.

  • Your case manager will check in with you and your employer on a biweekly or monthly basis depending on your situation and needs.

  • Opportunities vary based on current employer partnerships and may include construction, environmental work, community services, creative fields, and more.

  • Your case manager will work with you to find a better match. The goal is long-term career success, not just filling a position.

Program Structure

Ages 18+ Track

  • Flexible engagement | Employer-paid

  • Job placement, career readiness, and professional development through community partner employers

What You'll Focus On

  • Building professional skills in real-world work settings

  • Developing relationships with local employers and mentors

  • Advancing career readiness and workplace confidence

  • Accessing additional training and certification opportunities

  • Planning long-term career and personal growth goals

Support Every Step of the Way

Every UI Referral Program participant is paired with an HHF case manager who stays in regular contact with both you and your employer. Case management focuses on career progress, workplace success, and long-term placement, ensuring you have the guidance and resources to grow beyond your first opportunity.

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Your Next Steps

The Referral Program is Part of a Bigger Journey

The UI Referral Program connects to a full continuum of workforce development and leadership opportunities. Whether you are just starting out or ready to go deeper, there is a next step for you:

  • Under Instruction Academy - Career exploration and foundational soft skills for ages 12-17

  • UI Long-Term Recovery Cohort - Hands-on construction training through community service

  • YouthBuild CORE-2 - Full-time workforce preparation and education

  • Everybody Huddle Up - Youth leadership, policy, and advocacy

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