Our History
Foundations Laid
In 1979, educator and activist Dorothy Stoneman founded YouthBuild in East Harlem, New York. It all began when she asked local young people how they would improve their community. Their answer was clear — they wanted to rebuild abandoned buildings to create safe, affordable housing. Working together, they turned this vision into reality, laying the foundation for what would become the YouthBuild model: combining education, skills training, and leadership development to empower young people to lead change in their own lives and communities.
Over the decades, YouthBuild has grown into a global movement. Today, as YouthBuild Global, it supports over 320 programmes in more than 20 countries. YouthBuild Ventures UK is proud to be part of this legacy, bringing this proven model to the UK and adapting it to meet the unique challenges faced by young people here.
Our history is a testament to what’s possible when young people are given the tools, support, and belief they need to thrive. Together, we’re continuing this tradition of transformation — building futures, strengthening communities, and creating lasting impact.
Visit our YouthBuild Global site
