05/28/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2025
The LIME Foundation Partners with Hopland Band of Pomo Indians to Launch NextGen Trades Academy for Native Youth in Mendocino County, Hopland, CA —
The LIME Foundation is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the Hopland Band of Pomo Indians to bring the acclaimed NextGen Trades Academy to native youth in Mendocino County. Launching in July 2025, this initiative will provide essential skills training and job placement opportunities for at-risk youth, empowering them to build successful careers in the construction trades and beyond.
The NextGen Trades Academy, developed by The LIME Foundation, has a proven track record of helping young people find pathways to gainful employment while addressing the growing workforce needs of local communities since 2017. Through this partnership, Native American youth from the Hopland Band and surrounding Mendocino County communities will gain hands-on experience, OSHA certification, financial literacy education, and direct connections to employment opportunities with local contractors.
“We are honored to partner with the Hopland Band of Pomo Indians,” said Letitia Hanke, Founder and CEO of The LIME Foundation. “This collaboration represents a shared commitment to uplifting young people by providing them with real opportunities to achieve financial independence, build generational wealth, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
The July 2025 program will specifically target at-risk young adults ages 18-30, offering them access to quality education, mentorship, and resources they may not otherwise have. Participants who complete the program will be connected to full-time employment opportunities with local contractors committed to supporting the growth and success of Native youth.
“This exciting partnership is a testament to the possibilities that stem from collaboration and a determination to create opportunities that will have lasting impacts on the youth and young adults in our community. This opportunity aligns with our Tribes goals of personal and professional development of our people. More importantly, we are empowering our youth transitioning into the workforce while honoring our traditional values and securing a brighter path for our future leaders.” Sonny Elliott, Tribal Chairman, Hopland Band of Pomo Indians.
The LIME Foundation and the Hopland Band of Pomo Indians share a vision of creating brighter futures through education, opportunity, and community collaboration. Together, they aim to ensure that young people in Mendocino County have the tools they need to thrive.
For more information about the NextGen Trades Academy or to learn how to support this initiative, please visit www.thelimefoundation.org.
Contact:
Letitia Hanke
CEO/ Founder
The LIME Foundation
Phone: 707-532-5463 x1001
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.thelimefoundation.org
