Overview

Since 2014, more than 250,000 unaccompanied minors have made a dangerous journey to the U.S. from Central America, many from El Salvador, where jobs are scarce and gangs are rampant. One program, funded by U.S. government aid and private philanthropy, is supporting young people in San Salvador with leadership and job training. PBS NewsHour Special Correspondent Fred de Sam Lazaro reports.

Videos

Discussion Questions

What problems can you identify in this story? Are solutions presented?
In what way might this story be relevant in your community?
Not every student in the program likely wants to be a baker or mechanic. Is there value in learning those skills anyway?
Half of El Salvador’s population is under the age of 18. In comparison, 24 percent of the U.S. is under 18. What do you think that means for El Salvador’s future?

Writing Prompt (250 Words)

The Youth Build program teaches job skills, but also deals with the emotional psycho-social part of the children’s lives. Why is that aspect important to address?