Have you ever been to a Cornhole Classic? Do you even know what it is?

We’ll have a presence at the 2017 Cornhole Classic on Friday, September 8th. Held at the at the Castaway Portland (1900 NW 18th Ave), it’s the Portland YouthBuilder’s (PYB) annual fundraising event.

Drawing on the popularity of “cornhole,” or beanbag toss games, The Cornhole Classic combines the enthusiasm of a competitive cornhole tournament with elements of a traditional fundraising event (dinner, auction, etc.). The result is a high-energy and fun way to support PYB students and programs.

Founded in 1995, PYB supports young people who are committed to changing their lives to become self-sufficient, contributing members of the workforce and their community. Each year, PYB provides education, vocational training, and leadership development services for over 200 young people between the ages of 17 and 24. Program participants have not completed high school and face significant barriers to success.

PYB students pursue an academically rigorous training program which requires excellent attendance, participation in community service, and a serious investment in their futures. They receive hands-on job training in construction or computer technology.

Technology students refurbish computers, complete CompTIA certifications, and provide introductory technology and web service classes to under-served senior communities throughout the Portland Metro Area.

Construction students earn BOLI certificates for entry into apprenticeships and unions. They gain their full range of construction skills in the classroom and on worksite building single family households for low-income, first-time home buyers in the Portland Metro Area.

When students graduate from PYB, they have their high school diploma, an AmeriCorps community service award, and job skills in the technology or construction field to establish a pathway out of poverty. They are hopeful, brave, and determined individuals. Eighty-five percent of graduates are placed in apprenticeships, jobs, or college after they complete the PYB program.

Thai Bloom is pleased to lend its support to this impressive organization.