Lake County Approves BUILD Amendment
More Funding Creates Lasting Opportunities for Lake County Residents
The Lake County Board of Supervisors approved $265,000 in additional funding for the BUILD program to a total $1,065,000, providing local adults with enriching and valuable hands-on learning experiences and strengthening community projects.
At the December 17, 2024, Board meeting Deputy County Administrative Officer Casey Moreno requested additional funding for the “Building Up Individuals and Local Development” (BUILD) program, led by the nonprofit organization North Coast Opportunities, Inc. (NCO).
Based in Ukiah, NCO is “...the Community Action Agency serving Lake and Mendocino Counties.” The BUILD program, formerly called NCO’s Building Homes, Building Lives, is NCO’s workforce development program designed to support Lake County residents from low-income and housing-insecure backgrounds. Lake County residents who participate in the program receive compensation of $17 per hour and hands-on guidance from licensed general contractors over the course of four months. Participants “earn-and-learn” for 28 hours each week at various locations throughout Lake County and have the opportunity to earn strong referrals and connect with hiring employers.
The BUILD program provides hands-on work experience and helps participants develop both hard and soft skills in construction and building trades. NCO’s BUILD program has three key goals:
1. Empower Lake County residents by building their skills, improving their economic situation and preparing them for success in a new field.
2. Strengthen local development by contributing to affordable housing stock and enhancing the livability of Lake County.
3. Address labor shortages in Lake County’s local construction industry and beyond.
Participants also receive on-the-job equipment upon graduation.
To learn more about the BUILD program, click here.
Additionally, the BUILD program supports employers by connecting them with graduates, reducing onboarding costs and risks while helping graduates secure jobs. The program also benefits landlords, property owners/managers, and developers by assisting with home remodels and preparing properties for new tenants. NCO actively seeks projects in Lake County to offer worksite opportunities where BUILD participants can hone their skills. All projects are led and supervised by licensed general contractors and BUILD program staff.
It is vital for Lake County to continue partnering with and supporting nonprofit organizations such as NCO to strengthen workforce development and address the region’s housing shortages During the Board meeting, Supervisor Jessica Pyska emphasized the importance of expanding the BUILD program, stating, “We’re working for more funding because it’s essential to create generational change and lasting opportunities for residents.” Supervisor Pyska and Supervisor Sabatier’s calls for more funding and addressing housing gaps reflect Lake County’s commitment to advancing the program.
To read the approved Amendment from December 17, 2024, click here.
With increased funding and a broader focus, the BUILD program is making a lasting impact in Lake County by empowering residents to overcome challenges, access resources, and build better futures.