Empowered to Live, Inc.
Welcome to Empowered to Live, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of youth and families through comprehensive workforce development programs. Our focus is on equipping individuals with the skills and resources necessary for sustainable employment and economic advancement.
Our Program
PROJECT GUIDE
Project GUIDE is a pre-apprenticeship workforce training program that prepares youth and young adults ages 16–24 for careers in the construction and skilled trades industry. Through hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and career readiness support, participants gain the skills and confidence needed to pursue meaningful employment and long-term career pathways.
Hands-On Construction Training
Participants receive practical training in the construction and skilled trades industry, learning foundational skills through hands-on activities and real-world project exposure. This training helps participants build technical abilities while gaining valuable experience in a professional work environment.
Career Readiness & Workforce Development
Participants prepare for the workforce by developing essential professional skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and workplace expectations. Also, they receive career exploration opportunities and coaching to help them identify and pursue career pathways that align with their goals.
Industry Recognized-Credentials
Participants earn industry-recognized certifications that prepare them for employment in the skilled trades industry. Certifications may include NCCER Core, OSHA-10 safety training, forklift certification, and other credentials that demonstrate workplace readiness and technical competency.
Financial Literacy & Supportive Services
Project GUIDE provides financial literacy education and connects participants to supportive services that help remove barriers to employment. These resources help participants develop financial stability, build confidence, and stay focused on achieving their career and life goals.
Learn more about our Project GUIDE Program →
Our Impact
41
Youth Trained
95%
Completion Rate
100+
Certificates Earned
4
Cohorts Completed
500+
Training Hours Completed
Success Stories
"Empowered to Live helped me gain the skills I needed to succeed in my career. I am now working and pursuing my dreams!"
Guilian Venkus
"The training I received opened doors that I never thought possible. I am proud of my accomplishments!"
Ariel Watkins
"Thanks to Empowered to Live, I was able to gain certifications that helped me land a great job in the skilled trades!"