PROGRAMS

Polk Empower Youth: Mentoring Program

The EmpowerYouth Mentoring Program is an integral part of our efforts at We Build Polk, CDC, to invest in the future of Polk County. Since our inception in 2018, we have been offering a comprehensive, long-term mentoring scheme for young individuals between the ages of 12 and 21.

Our program pairs youth with dedicated mentors who provide guidance, support, and positive role models. Over four years, mentors help mentees develop key life skills, foster academic interests, navigate personal challenges, and prepare for future careers or higher education. Activities within the program are designed to build self-esteem, promote a positive outlook, and inspire a commitment to personal growth.

We believe every young person deserves the chance to succeed, regardless of background or circumstances. The EmpowerYouth Mentoring Program seeks to level the playing field, ensuring our youth are equipped with the tools, resources, and confidence they need to become successful, self-sufficient adults. In building up our youth, we are building a stronger, more equitable future for Polk County.

Family First Parenting Program

The Polk Parenting Program is committed to supporting and strengthening families throughout Polk County. Our evidence-based Nurturing Skills training curriculum is renowned for its ability to improve parenting skills, foster better family relationships, and promote healthy child development. Our program offers a variety of workshops, support groups, and one-on-one coaching sessions that cover a wide range of topics. By participating in our program, parents and caregivers can gain a deeper understanding of their child's needs, learn strategies to nurture their child's growth and development and create a family environment that is supportive, empathetic, and nurturing. At Family First, we firmly believe that strong families are the foundation of a strong community. By empowering parents with the knowledge and skills to raise healthy, confident, and successful children, we are helping to build a brighter, more equitable future for all residents of Polk County.

Reclaim and Rebuild: The Polk Reentry Program

The Polk Reentry Program is a transformative initiative that aims to ease the transition process for ex-offenders reintegrating into society in Polk County, Florida. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals post-incarceration, we have developed a program that offers a wide array of transitional services and support systems. Our program provides vocational training, career counseling, and job placement assistance to help participants acquire the necessary skills and resources for gainful employment. We offer housing assistance and guide participants toward finding stable, affordable living arrangements. We also provide mental health support and substance abuse counseling, recognizing the critical importance of addressing these issues in reentry. Reclaim and Rebuild also encourages community engagement by connecting participants with local support networks, community resources, and volunteer opportunities. This not only aids the reintegration process but also fosters a sense of belonging and contribution. The Reclaim and Rebuild program aims to reduce recidivism rates and create a supportive environment that enables individuals to lead productive, fulfilling lives post-incarceration. We believe in second chances and are here to provide the tools and resources necessary for success.

EmpowerPolk Workforce Development Initiative

The EmpowerPolk Workforce Development Initiative is a dynamic program designed to drive economic prosperity and increase employment rates in Polk County. Aimed at youths and adults, this initiative equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the ever-evolving job market successfully. Our program offers a suite of services, including targeted vocational training, job placement assistance, and career counseling. We focus on sectors with strong job growth potential, providing training in high-demand fields to increase the employability of our participants. The EmpowerPolk Workforce Development Initiative also emphasizes entrepreneurial skills, offering resources and mentorship for those interested in starting their own businesses. Our goal is not only to prepare participants for the job market but also to foster a spirit of innovation and self-reliance. By aligning the skills and interests of our community members with the needs of the local economy, we create a win-win situation: businesses gain access to a well-prepared, motivated workforce, and individuals gain the tools to secure stable, fulfilling employment. The EmpowerPolk Workforce Development Initiative is a key component of our mission to build a prosperous, equitable, and empowered Polk County.

Polk Homefront: Homeless Housing Initiative

Polk Homefront: Youth Homeless Housing Initiative is a dedicated program that aims to combat youth homelessness in Polk County. Recognizing that young people who experience homelessness are at a greater risk for a multitude of adverse outcomes, our program is designed to provide immediate support and long-term solutions. Our initiative provides immediate, emergency housing options for homeless youth, ensuring they have a safe place to stay. We also offer transitional housing support to move these young individuals towards stable, long-term living situations. In addition to providing housing, our program takes a comprehensive approach to addressing the root causes of homelessness. We offer supportive services, including educational support to promote high school completion or GED acquisition, job training and placement to improve employment prospects, and life skills training to foster independence. Health and well-being are also central to our program. We ensure access to physical and mental health services, substance abuse counseling, and nutritional guidance. Through the Polk Homefront: Youth Homeless Housing Initiative, we aim to break the cycle of homelessness among youth in our community and offer them the chance to build a stable, successful future. Our vision is a Polk County where every young person has a safe place to call home and the support they need to thrive.

Polk Community Connect: Mobile Outreach Services

Polk Community Connect: Mobile Outreach Services is an innovative initiative that brings essential services directly to the underserved areas of Polk County. Recognizing that transportation and accessibility can often be barriers to receiving much-needed help, we aim to bridge this gap through our mobile outreach. Our mobile outreach team travels to various communities throughout the county, offering a wide array of services. These include health screenings, legal advice, job placement assistance, and food aid. By delivering these services directly, we ensure that every community member, regardless of their location or circumstance, has access to resources that can improve their quality of life. An important component of the Polk Community Connect program is education. We offer workshops and informational sessions on topics such as financial literacy, health and wellness, and workforce development, empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to thrive. Through our Polk Community Connect: Mobile Outreach Services, we strive to make every resident feel connected, supported, and part of the Polk County community. By breaking down barriers and reaching out directly, we are committed to ensuring that no one in our community is left behind.