About Us

About PROJECT BUILD

Decades of Community Impact & experience

PROJECT BUILD was born from a simple but powerful belief: that where you come from should never determine where you end up. We are a Department of Education approved General Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program and 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving at-risk youth and young adults in Southwest Florida and Metro Atlanta.

We operate at the intersection of mentoring, financial education, and skilled trades training — not because those are easy areas to work in, but because they are precisely the areas where at-risk youth are being left behind. Our open-enrollment, earned-progression model meets participants where they are and holds them accountable as they advance.

We don't believe in quick fixes. We believe in building — one person, one credential, one career pathway at a time.

Our Mission

To positively impact homeless, foster, justice-involved, and otherwise at-risk youth and young adults by providing them with mentoring, industry-recognized certifications, financial literacy, and workforce development opportunities that lead to long-term career success and personal growth.

Our Vision

A community where every young person — regardless of their background or circumstances — has access to the guidance, skills, and opportunities needed to become a confident, productive, and financially empowered adult.

Our Values

What Guides Our Work

Integrity

We do what we say. Transparent relationships, honest communication, and accountability at every stage of our work — with participants, partners, and donors alike.

Innovation

We continuously evolve our methods to meet youth where they are — pushing boundaries while honoring the timeless principles of human connection and respect.

Collaboration

No single organization can do this alone. Every project we run is a partnership — between our team, our participants, their families, and the broader community.

Empathy

We lead with compassion. We understand that every participant comes with their own story, their own wounds, and their own potential — and we honor all three.

Our Team

The People Behind the Mission

Aram Wheatley

...

Jennifer Fernandez

...

Frequently Asked Questions

From Vision

to Reality

Have questions about who we serve, how our programs work, or how you can get involved? We've answered the most common ones below. For anything else, reach out directly — we'd love to connect.

Who is eligible for Project B.U.I.L.D. programs?

Our programs are designed for at-risk youth and young adults, typically ages 16–24, who are not currently enrolled in school or employed. We work closely with local youth agencies and community organizations to identify and serve those who need support most.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. Our programs are provided at no cost to participants. We are funded through donations, grants, and community partnerships — because financial barriers should never stand between a young person and their future.

How long do the programs run?

Program length varies depending on the track. Our mentoring sessions run on an ongoing basis, financial literacy classes meet weekly, and workforce development certifications are completed in defined cohort periods. Our team will walk each participant through the timeline at intake.

How can my business get involved as a partner?

We welcome employer partners who are willing to offer mock interviews, job shadowing, apprenticeships, or direct employment to our graduates. Contact us directly to discuss partnership opportunities — our participants are ready to work, and we make the connection easy.

Client Stories

REAL STORIES FROM OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"PROJECT BUILD didn't just give me a certification — it gave me a reason to believe I could do more. I came in with nothing and left with a job offer and a plan for my future."

James R.
Program Graduate
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"As a community partner, we've seen how these young people transform. The mentorship foundation they receive sets them apart — they arrive to work ready in ways you can't teach on a job site."

Maria L.
Local Employer Partner
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"I never thought my son would find his direction. The program not only trained him — it helped him understand who he is and what he's capable of. He's been employed for eight months straight."

Denise P.
Parent

Get Involved

Ready to Make a Difference?

Your support — whether time, money, or expertise — directly

changes the trajectory of a young person's life. Join us.

A non-profit organization dedicated to empowering at-risk youth and young adults through mentoring, financial literacy, and workforce development.

Programs

  • Mentoring

  • Financial Literacy

  • Workforce Development

  • Certifications

  • Job Placement

Contact

Empowering Youth. Strengthening Communities.

© 2026 Project BUILD SWFL. All Rights Reserved. 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization.