About us

CHCYD adopts a dual place-based and sector-based approach to advancing human capital, workforce development, and youth development. Our place-based strategies include working with communities to develop, implement, evaluate, and replicate supported employment and supported education interventions through which youth receive long-term, customized, and holistic supports to help them obtain and maintain competitive employment and attain their educational goals.

Our sector-based strategies include working with employers to identify high-growth and high-demand industries and to assess the educational needs of their current workforce. Related sector-based strategies include developing research-informed vocational curricula to train youth in marketable and transferable workforce skills and identifying sustainable pathways to local industry positions.

Our mixed approach to advancing human capital, workforce development, and youth development draws on a strong network of ties in local communities, including employers, governments, educational institutions, non-profits, and philanthropic organizations. By supporting young people in accessing educational degrees, vocational training, stable employment, and long-term careers, CHCYD will help facilitate their healthy transition to adulthood as well as create a more viable and inclusive workforce who can better contribute to the long-term success of Arizona’s economy.

Center staff

Dr. Kristin Ferguson-Colvin | CHCYD Director
Associate Professor
ASU School of Social Work
(602) 496-0088
Kristin.Ferguson@asu.edu

James Hoyt | Executive Director of Opportunities for Youth
(602) 534-8393
jehoyt@asu.edu