TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - A Florida State university professor is spearheading a new outreach program to mentor disadvantaged youth in the Big Bend on careers in residential construction.
Florida State University College of Social Work Professor Eyitayo Onifade is the leader of the new program, which is called Construction-Coaching Opportunities to Reach Employment (C-CORE).
The program, which is a partnership between the college and the Home Builders Institute, is set to launch in mid-March.
“This program speaks to the commitment of Dr. Onifade and the College of Social Work to address the needs of at-risk youth and helping to build healthy communities through education and career development,” said Nicholas Mazza, dean of the College of Social Work. “Our partnership with the Home Builders Institute is another example of how, through social work practice and research, we recognize the abilities of those at risk and support community partners. This and other partnerships with the Tallahassee community find a common ground in promoting personal growth, family strengths and community development.”
The Home Builders Institute facilitates mentoring and skills training for underserved, at-risk and court-involved youths. Onifade was awarded a $60,000 grant from the institute to launch the program.
C-CORE is charged with delivering mentoring services to approximately 200 youths during a 14-month period. The success of the program will be measured on how well it is able to connect young people with prime job opportunities and the reduction of delinquency risk among participants.
“This collaboration will connect youth with construction industry leaders, preparing them to participate in a primary labor market and planting the seed for future economic growth in the region,” Onifade said.
The Home Builders Institute extended its resources to Florida State as a means of expanding its initiative to create meaningful relationships between adults and youths through industry-sponsored mentoring.
This program is one of several initiatives the College of Social Work is undertaking to strengthen the university’s relationship with the local community, through outreach and service projects.
