On July 31, 2025, the Community Youth Development Institute (CYDI) marked a milestone at 7839 South Union, the groundbreaking of a new single-family home built by our YouthBuild pre-apprenticeship students.
The event was more than a ceremony. It symbolized opportunity, skill-building, and community renewal, while highlighting the impact of CYDI’s YouthBuild program in preparing young people for both careers and leadership.
More Than Construction: Building Skills and Purpose
Through CYDI’s YouthBuild Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program, students gained hands-on training, earned industry-recognized credentials, and began transforming a vacant lot into a safe, affordable home.
The new home represents a $400,000 investment in Auburn Gresham. While government and partner funds cover much of the cost, CYDI must raise $150,000 from community stakeholders and supporters to cover the critical expenses that are not government-funded.
Why We Need You Now
The groundbreaking was just the first step, but the real work has only begun. To complete this project, we must rally together as a community and raise the remaining $150,000 by December 2025.
Your support today will:
Provide construction materials & tools so students can continue learning and building.
Fund workforce training & stipends so young people can focus on developing their skills.
Revitalize Auburn Gresham by turning a vacant lot into a lasting anchor of hope
This is not just about a house. It’s about investing in young people, building futures, and strengthening our community. But we can’t do it without you.
How You Can Help
Donate today – Every dollar brings us closer to our $150,000 goal.
Spread the word – Share this initiative with your networks, friends, and family.
Engage with CYDI YouthBuild – Offer career connections, serve in an advisory role, or partner with us on community projects
Together, We Can Reach the Goal
The July 31 groundbreaking was a milestone, but the true measure of success will be completing this home and showing our students that their hard work matters. With your help, we can meet our December goal and ensure this home becomes a symbol of hope, opportunity, and achievement for generations to come.
👉🏾 Support the YouthBuild initiative today: cdichicago.org/give_posts/new-home-build
Thank you for your commitment to community impact and for considering how we can work together to create opportunity, strengthen neighborhoods, and develop the next generation of skilled leaders.
With appreciation,
Aaron Royster-Executive Director
Community Youth Development Institute (CYDI)