At the Capital Youth Empowerment Program (CYEP), workforce development is more than just job training—it’s about building futures, strengthening families, and changing generational outcomes. Through a unique multigenerational approach, CYEP helps both youth and fathers gain the tools they need to succeed in today’s economy. Whether it’s a young person exploring their first career path or a father rebuilding his life after incarceration, CYEP stands beside them every step of the way.
Workforce Development as a Family Strategy
The challenges facing young people and returning adults often overlap: limited access to networks, gaps in education, and lack of exposure to career-building opportunities. For families in underserved communities, these barriers can stretch across generations. CYEP tackles this head-on with programs designed to serve both ends of the spectrum.
For youth, CYEP offers career readiness workshops, mentorship, and STEM engagement that sparks interest in in-demand fields like coding, robotics, and engineering. These early exposures help young people not only build skills but also envision a future that might once have seemed out of reach.
For fathers, especially those impacted by incarceration or unemployment, CYEP provides workforce readiness coaching, soft skills training, and connections to job opportunities. These programs don’t just help individuals; they uplift entire families by restoring financial stability and self-confidence.
Through the Eyes of Our Participants
James, a 17-year-old in CYEP’s STEM program, shares how a summer workshop changed his trajectory: “Before this, I didn’t even know what an engineer really did. Now, I’m looking at colleges with engineering programs. I see a path for myself.”
Meanwhile, Michael, a father of two in CYEP’s reentry support program, reflects: “Getting a second chance is hard. But this program didn’t just help me write a resume—they helped me believe I had something to offer. I’m working full-time now and showing my kids what change looks like.”
These voices remind us that career success is deeply personal—and deeply powerful when it changes the life of a whole family.
Measurable Impact, Lasting Results
CYEP’s workforce programs have placed dozens of participants in sustainable careers across industries from construction to IT. Youth graduates report higher confidence in their future plans, and adult participants have reduced rates of recidivism and increased family engagement.
By focusing on both generations, CYEP ensures that progress isn’t temporary—it’s transformational.
Join Us in Building Futures
Workforce development is a key to breaking cycles of poverty and incarceration. At CYEP, we believe every young person and every parent deserves access to opportunity, no matter where they start.
You can be part of this change. Partner with us, volunteer your time, or support our programs with a donation. Together, we can help more families take their next step toward a new future.
Learn more or get involved at cyep.org.
