Defiant, my son went when he was 18. He hated it, but I thought it was a wonderful opportunity.
My son was at the Treasure Island center, which is an island next to the SF Bay Bridge. It used to be a navy installation and now houses non-profits. One cannot imagine a more beautiful location. Other Job Corps sites are located throughout the country.
Many of the participants come from impoverished situations, but not all. Others were in the "system," foster kids. Other kids are like our own. Needing structure and a chance, because they have fallen between the cracks, for one reason or another.
Some of the trainings are fantastic. Very high earning trades. I think college is possible too. The staff are very, very vigilant, and forgiving. My son was taken for a 5150 evaluation, while he was there. Maybe twice. I am not sure if it was to rule out danger to self or others. They took it in stride. Once he was cleared, he went back. They work with the kid where he is.
I insisted my son complete a training before he could come home, and he did. The trainings are self-paced.
I wanted my son to return but he would not. Even now he prefers being homeless and aimless, rather than return there.
COPA