FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION
**MEDIA ADVISORY**
TUESDAY: Missouri YouthBuild Trainees Head to State Capitol to Showcase Skills and Impact
Young people to construct park benches, garden beds and more, to showcase industry-aligned skills
Jefferson City, MO.: Young people from YouthBuild programs across Missouri will take their talent and determination to the state capitol on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, for a day of hands‑on construction demonstrations, youth‑led advocacy, and statewide fellowship. Hosted by the Missouri YouthBuild Coalition, this event will allow young people to share their stories with policymakers and demonstrate the industry-aligned skills they are gaining in construction and other high-demand fields. Throughout the day, trainees will construct park benches, raised garden beds and picnic tables on-site. Press are welcome to attend.
WHEN:
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
9:30-3pm
WHERE:
324 Capitol Ave Jefferson City, MO
WHO:
The Missouri YouthBuild Coalition
Young people in YouthBuild programs from across Missouri
Local YouthBuild program staff
Elected officials and staff
On-the-Ground Contact:
Jerrell Morton/573-424-7624/jerrellm@jobpoint.org
Hosted by the Missouri YouthBuild Coalition, this event will showcase how young people across Missouri are rebuilding their educational and career pathways through YouthBuild. At a time when employers across the state report unfilled jobs and widening skills gaps, these young Missourians are stepping up to obtain practical training, real-world experience, and pathways to family-sustaining careers.
Across Missouri, thousands of young people are considered “disconnected” (not in school and not working, facing barriers that limit their access to opportunity). YouthBuild programs specialize in reengaging these young adults by providing a comprehensive pathway that includes:
Education: Students work toward earning their high school diploma or equivalency through flexible, supportive learning models.
Workforce Training: Programs deliver hands‑on training aligned with local and regional labor market needs, preparing youth for in‑demand careers in construction, healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and more.
Service Learning: YouthBuild trainees strengthen their communities through acts of service, leadership development, and civic responsibility—building both tangible projects and a sense of belonging.
During the Jefferson City event, YouthBuild trainees will demonstrate their construction skills through live builds such as park benches, raised flower beds, and picnic tables. They will also participate in team‑building activities, leadership exercises, and direct engagement with state officials to share their stories and advocate for expanded opportunities.
This Capitol Day is a key component of the Coalition’s statewide initiative, “Missouri‑Building Missouri,” which seeks to secure sustainable funding to grow YouthBuild programs and ensure more young people across the state have access to education, workforce training, and community‑building experiences. By elevating the voices and talents of Missouri’s opportunity youth, the Coalition aims to highlight the transformative impact of YouthBuild and the importance of investing in the next generation of skilled workers and community leaders.
