In the aftermath of Los Angeles’ most devastating natural disaster, a unique initiative is transforming the lives of at-risk young adults while addressing the city’s urgent need for skilled construction workers. Tevin Banks, a 21-year-old from Watts, South Central L.A., is among the first participants in the SOAR (Strengthening Opportunities and Resistance) program, which aims to train 2,000 young people for entry-level construction jobs. The program, launched in June 2025 by the nonprofit Life Aid Research Institute, responds to the labor demands of rebuilding efforts following January’s wildfires, which destroyed or damaged approximately 13,000 homes. Banks, who was arrested for robbery two years ago, saw the program as a turning point. ‘When I was sitting in the cell, I was just thinking to myself, like, I’m young, and I really see myself doing something,’ he said. SOAR combines life skills mentorship with hands-on training in 14 construction trades, including carpentry, masonry, and flooring. The program’s founder, John Wordin, envisions it as a dual solution: providing career opportunities for marginalized youth while meeting the city’s rebuilding needs. Despite challenges, including securing $1 million in funding, SOAR has already begun to make an impact. Students like Banks are learning from instructors such as Edward Romero, a former inmate turned journeyman floor layer, who embodies the program’s mission of second chances. Local construction companies, including Shirley Construction, have expressed interest in hiring graduates, with owner David Shirley praising their work ethic. ‘They’ve had a tough start,’ he said. ‘So we’re happy to offer them greener pastures.’ As rebuilding efforts are expected to ramp up in 2026 and 2027, programs like SOAR are laying the foundation for both personal and community renewal.