Youth Build Lake County Renovation & Addition North Chicago, Illinois
Since opening its doors in 2004, YouthBuild Lake County (YBLC) has been dedicated to equipping young adults in the Lake County, Illinois area with the education, training, and life skills necessary to achieve meaningful employment and build brighter futures. As YBLC continues to grow and its lease nears expiration, the time is right to establish a permanent home to better reflect its mission and support expanding programs.
This renovation and expansion project represents an exciting next chapter for YBLC, creating a dynamic, purpose-built facility that will enhance the organization’s ability to serve more young people, offer enriched programming, and prepare for the future.
Phase 1: Laying the Foundation for Success
Phase 1 focuses on the thoughtful renovation of the existing structure, transforming it into a fully functional, welcoming environment for Youth Build members and staff. Key features include:
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Career Services Lounge: A dedicated space for job searches, resume development, and career coaching.
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Member Lounge: A comfortable area for students to relax between classes, enjoy lunch, or engage in group activities.
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New Entry Lobby: A warm and inviting space for welcoming students, guests, and community partners.
In addition to these spaces, office and infrastructure improvements will prioritize security, accessibility, and functionality—ensuring the facility is equipped to meet immediate needs and support daily operations.
Phase 2: Building for the Future
The centerpiece of the project, a new 20,000-square-foot addition, will dramatically expand YBLC’s capacity and capabilities. This phase introduces:
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Two state-of-the-art workshops that serve as the heart of YBLC’s hands-on construction training.
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Flexible classrooms, open hallways, quiet study nooks, and an outdoor learning space, all designed to foster learning and community.
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A large multipurpose room on the second floor to host graduation ceremonies, guest speakers, career fairs, and other community events.
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Donor recognition and success story walls, celebrating achievements and the partners who help make them possible.
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A second-floor terrace, offering additional space for gatherings, reflection, and connection.
Together, these improvements reflect YBLC’s deep commitment to empowering youth and creating lasting opportunities. This new facility is more than a building — it is a home base for transformation, resilience, and hope for generations to come.
Our team of architects, designers, and consultants are working closely with Youth Build Lake County to bring this vision to life. Phase 1 has successfully completed the permitting process and is set to begin construction imminently, with Phase 2 following closely behind.