Sixty-six students will have the chance to gain life-changing skills while also giving back to the community.

Guam Community College President and CEO Dr. Maryo Okada said, “GCC programs are effecting and equipping our island residents with in-demand skills that are needed and vital for the industries here on Guam.”

And Program Specialist Pete Roberto said this is more than just construction training.

The program offers a full spectrum of support, mentorship, case management, and even mental health resources to help students overcome challenges and prepare for long-term careers.

“You become employable, you become proud. You become proud, you make a change in our community,” said Roberto.

Students will also take part in a “living lab”, where they’ll start with renovating a housing unit, and eventually grow their skills to tackle building an entire home from the ground up.

“We have already identified a unit,” added Roberto.

And yet, dark clouds are on the horizon with the threat of President Trump’s intention to freeze federal funding.

Okada said Youthbuild is fully funded for now, backed by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.

“And we are moving forward as the grant application has already been awarded to us,” said Okada.

While Youthbuild moves forward, other institutions are already feeling the impact of federal funding concerns.

The University of Guam and Sea Grant are already bracing for potential cuts, sending out furlough notices to some of its employees.

“What if federal funds were no longer available,” said Okada. “Right now, the college is solid. The college is solid in terms of its ability to deliver career and technical education courses, to continue to support our bootcamps, and to continue to support our students.”

Meanwhile the Guam Department of Education said, “At this time, there are no cuts, and GDOE will continue to implement programs as planned.”

Youthbuild is a major opportunity for Guam's young adults, equipping them with the skills to enter the workforce and contribute to our community.

But as federal funding remains uncertain, local institutions are keeping a close eye on what’s next.