A group of young adults in Cambria County are getting work experience and education by giving back to the community.

The YouthBuild Johnstown program is sponsored by Goodwill of the Southern Alleghenies.

The nine-month program gives kids 17-24 years old a chance to get an education and learn a trade, like nursing, welding or construction.

“After I dropped out of high school, I never thought I would say, ‘I got my GED or I have this.’ I didn’t think I’d be where I’m at now. Without [YouthBuild] and the peers I have, it wouldn’t have been possible,” said Robert Lamb, a YouthBuild student.

170 kids have enrolled in the program since it started in 2007. 108 students have earned diplomas or certificates and 89 have either been placed in jobs or education programs.

YouthBuild Johnstown is funded by a U.S. Department of Labor grant for $720,000 and nongovernmental donations from community organizations totaling $180,000.