Workforce Development Programs


Building Pathways to Opportunity

Interested in learning more or applying?

Contact Carla at (828) 419-0743

The Hood Huggers Foundation's workforce development programs serve as an interconnected pathway for youth and young adults at every stage of readiness

Through hands-on learning, leadership development, and personalized support, we help participants build job skills, life skills, and character – woven together through the arts, environment, and social enterprise.

Where the journey begins

The entry point for young people ages 12-17 to explore career possibilities through weekly community improvement projects. Participants build essential soft skills like communication and teamwork while discovering fields like environmental stewardship, community design, and creative arts.

Ages 12-17

  • Once weekly for 3 hours

  • Incentivized internship format

Full-time preparation for meaningful careers

An intensive, full-time program where young adults ages 16-24 complete their education, earn trade certifications, and transition into careers. Participants blend classroom learning with hands-on construction experience, leadership development, and comprehensive case management support.

Download a YouthBuild flyer in English and Español!

Ages 16-24

  • Full-time, cohort-based

  • 6-8 months

Building futures while building community

Young adults ages 18+ gain vocational training in construction, home repair, and green building while supporting Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Participants work alongside skilled tradespeople, earn stipends, and receive case management to secure post-program job placements in the trades.

Download our flyer in English and Español.

Ages 18+

  • 8 hours per week

  • 4-6 months

  • Stipends provided

Connecting talent to opportunity

A flexible career connector that matches young adults ages 18+ with local employers offering paid training, internships, and job opportunities. Case managers provide biweekly or monthly support to ensure successful workforce transitions.

Ages 18+

  • Flexible engagement

  • Biweekly/monthly case manager contact

Youth-led advocacy and community organizing

Everybody Huddle Up! is a youth-led initiative in Asheville, North Carolina, focused on strengthening civic engagement, policy literacy, and community accountability. It achieves this by utilizing Hood Huggers International’s Community Accountability Plan (CAP Framework) to align existing local frameworks.

Download our Everybody Huddle Up! flyer.

Ages 13 - 18

  • Monthly meetings + quarterly events and trips

  • Stipends for participation

Contact Hood Huggers

We look forward to hearing from you!


Email
connect@hoodhuggersfoundation.org

Phone
(828) 419-0743