House-Raising is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that pairs at risk youth, specifically those in the legal system, with businesses in the trades and arts industry within the youth’s community for a yearlong apprenticeship. House-Raising addresses the potential causes of criminal and delinquent behaviors while supporting the youth’s family. Space to learn basic living and entrepreneurial skills, credit recovery and obtaining a GED will be provided to enrich the youth’s experience. House-Raising is considered an intensive Diversion Program to support the needs of the youth, family, community, and mental/chemical health and juvenile justice systems.

Holistic Diversion: 14 – 25 -year-olds.

Traditional Diversion: 10 – 25- year-olds

Holistic Diversion: 1 year mentorship and case oversight will be provided.

Traditional Diversion: Designed to be a shorter intervention between 1 month and 9 months

Four main areas of focus:

• Apprenticeship: Pairing a youth with an arts or trades-based business for a year to understand hands on business management while obtaining an in-demand skill.
• Court/Case Oversight: Case Management designed to oversee engagement and compliance with program and court expectations while providing additional resources and services for the youth.
• Family Support: Providing specific support, services, and guidance to the family unit to better address barriers to working with and supporting their child.
• Education: The opportunity for youth to obtain a GED or engage in credit recovery while learning basic living and entrepreneurship skills.

Each youth will be assigned a pair of House-Raising staff: Diversion Case Manager and Community Support Specialist. The Diversion Case Manager will provide court oversight and family support. They will also make or assist in making referrals to community support services and ensure compliance in participating in those services. The Community Support Specialist will ensure compliance and oversight with apprentice businesses acting as a support for both the youth and the business. As a team they will work together to support the youth and family to address the causes of criminal and delinquent behavior.

House-Raising is funded through generous donations, grant funding and contracts with counties and other referring partners. 

House-Raising is currently located in Minneapolis, MN in the Arts District. We are seeking additional partnerships in Greater Twin Cities and Hudson, WI.

House-Raising has a long term plan to be a nationwide program and service for states and counties interested in partnership.