The U.S. Department of Labor has announced the closure of Gary Job Corps — the largest Job Corps campus in the country — by June 30, 2025. This devastating decision affects over 800 students, many of whom have nowhere else to go.   
Gary Job Corps has been a beacon of opportunity since 1965, offering free vocational training, education, housing, meals, and job placement assistance to underserved youth. Students come here from all across Texas and beyond in search of a second chance — a path away from poverty, homelessness, or instability.   


📊 Why This Matters      

Gary Job Corps has served tens of thousands of students over 60 years.
The program is free and has helped reduce youth unemployment and recidivism.
Many students are homeless, from foster care, or aging out of public systems — this center is their only support.
Sudden closure means abrupt displacement with little time to secure housing, jobs, or transportation.
Local businesses and employers depend on Gary graduates for skilled labor.            

“As a proud graduate of Gary Job Corps, I know firsthand how life-changing this program is. Gary didn’t just give me skills — it gave me purpose, support, and a future. That’s why I can’t stay silent as it faces closure.”

  🛑 What We’re Demanding    

  We call on Congress, Texas leadership, and the U.S. Department of Labor to:   


✅ Delay closure until every student has a safe transition plan

✅ Provide emergency housing and transportation funding

✅ Ensure staff employment support

✅ Invest in local youth workforce alternatives

✅ Preserve the legacy and purpose of Job Corps          

  🫶 How You Can Help      

Sign and share this petition with friends, family, and advocates


Share your Gary story — if you’re an alumni, parent, or former staff


Call on local leaders, employers, and organizations to step up


Offer housing, job placement, or transportation support through community networks

🖊️ Sign this petition today. These young people were on the right path — they still deserve to succeed. Don’t let their progress be erased.   


#SaveGaryJobCorps #SupportOurStudents #NoYouthLeftBehind