Shapiro joins Philadelphia leaders to back $50 million youth career center

Gov. Josh Shapiro joined Philadelphia Mayor Cheryl Parker and other officials Friday to announce state funding for a new career-development center planned by Philadelphia Youth Basketball, a nonprofit that runs youth programs at its Allen Horowitz Six Man Center.

Kenny Holzman, the group's CEO and co-founder, said the new building, called the Generator, will offer certificate-based training for 18- to 29-year-olds in construction trades, welding, precision machining, advanced manufacturing, and health care and technology careers. He said the total project cost is $50 million, including construction, an on-ramping program, campus improvements, borrowing costs and a $5 million operating endowment.

Holzman said about $10 million has already been raised, including support from philanthropists, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through its RACP program. He said the group plans to break ground in 12 to 14 months and hold a ribbon-cutting in early 2029.

Shapiro said the Commonwealth has committed $15 million over time to Philadelphia Youth Basketball and construction of the Generator, crediting state Sen. Vincent Hughes and state Rep. Ronnie Green for securing the funding.

"That is why the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has been proud to invest $15 million over time in both PYB and in the construction of this generator," Shapiro said.

Parker said the city, which she described as having a roughly $7 billion budget, cannot build this kind of institution without federal, state and local partners, and said the project fits her goal of expanding access to economic opportunity in Philadelphia.

Amin Ray, a participant in the group's Varsity Trades Academy, described how the program connected him with mentors and training opportunities. "Potential without opportunity can remain exactly that: potential," he said.

Rob Smith, executive director of the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Apprenticeship program, described a former student who called him at night anxious to learn if he had passed a test. "His response to me was, it's gonna change my life," Smith said, adding that the student is now a 10-year member of the carpenters union.

Officials also highlighted partnerships with organizations including Temple University, Jefferson Health Plans and the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters union, which are expected to be involved in training or co-locate at the new facility.