Last school year, Taylor Cunningham was kicked out of high school.

But he figured out a way to pivot, adjust to changes and graduate anyways. Friday, Cunningham, 17, stood proudly in his blue cap and gown as valedictorian of the Housing Authority of Birmingham District’s Magic City YouthBuild program.

Twenty-five teens and young adults graduated from the latest class of YouthBuild, a workforce development program erected in October 2022. The program gives 16-24 year olds who struggled in the traditional school setting an opportunity to earn a GED, learn business skills and a trade. The six-month program offers students a weekly stipend to compensate them for transportation, attendance and their commitment to education.

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“Today marks not just the end of our journey through this program, but also the beginning of new opportunities and adventures that await us,” Cunningham said during his valedictorian speech. “Many of us face challenges that seem insurmountable…yet here we are, united by our shared experience at the YouthBuild program.”

Cunningham said the program was not just about getting his GED. Along the way, he made close friends, developed relationships with teachers and fostered excitement for his future.

“It was about growth, we learned not only academic skills, but life lessons that will guide us through our future endeavors. We’ve developed critical thinking abilities, communication skills and a sense of responsibility that will serve us for the rest of our lives,” Cunningham said. “Education is a lifelong journey.”

With job training under his belt, his GED, trade certifications and acceptances to Jefferson State Community College and Grand Canyon University, Cunningham said he is excited to major in graphic design and animation.

Graduates hugged and laughed while accepting congratulations from proud loved ones and teachers. Many other graduates are walking away with college acceptances, scholarships, job offers and job training.

The Housing Authority partners with local companies and organizations such as Mechanical Craft Training Institute, JBS Mental Health, the University of Alabama at Birmingham Minority Health and Health Equity Resource Center and Lawson State Community College.

The partnerships allow participants to engage in training and gain exposure to new careers. Some graduates received job offers from the partner companies after graduating.

“Our mission is to help families become self-sufficient. Housing and education is a catalyst to do other things. We have people that we know need services, we know they have a need for economic empowerment, economic opportunities and the program does that,” Larry Williams, chief housing and programs director, said.

Alaina Bookman’s reporting at AL.com is supported by grants and individual donations. Give a tax-deductible contribution today.