Universal Concepts paves path to human excellence one renovation at a time

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A community organization is working to renovate not just buildings, but lives. Universal Concepts is community organization based in Albany with a mission to uplift the community through hands-on experience within a trade, learning non-traditional life skills, media training and more.

Right now, the group is renting a warehouse on Sheridan Avenue with plans to convert the space into a free construction training program for anyone 17 and older. The program will offer hands on experience in framing, drywalling, and painting along with OSHA certification, steel-toe boots, safety gear, and other essentials, all completely free.

“We have been doing a free constructive program for the past seven years,” said Qaadir Islam, President of Universal Concepts. “Once you get that skill, you have your OSHA. We pay for your steel toe boots, your belt, your hat, and then you’re on your way. And we can help you be on your way for you and your family.”

But construction isn’t the only skill they’re building.

Down on Washington Avenue, in the basement of the Albany Public Library, Universal Concepts also hosts a weekly media training session in a TV studio with brand new equipment. Every Wednesday at 12:30 p.m., community youth members gather to speak their mind, learn the skills of broadcasting, boost confidence, and develop their communication skills.

Along with that, they teach non-traditional life skills at the Boys and Girls club in Albany and Troy. They focus on the concept of “self-extermination” to the youth to enhance the community. It’s referring to self-destructive choices and lack of direction. They help people focus on identity, purpose, respect for family, and decision-making.

“Most of the students there… we encourage them to do better, to trust themselves, to recognize themselves before they tackle the world,” said Muhammad Abdullah, Universal Concepts Vice President.

To expand their impact, the organization is currently working toward a $10 million fundraising goal to fully renovate three properties across Albany.

• 766 Clinton Avenue – Planned to include a Halal market, media studio, and affordable living spaces.
• 393 Sheridan Avenue – Future home of the free construction training program.
• 524 Clinton Avenue – The largest project: a five-story Center for Human Excellence, featuring an Islamic center, conference rooms, offices, and apartments.

“We look forward to receiving support from NBA players, NFL players, rappers, Hollywood stars… some of them have made a commitment already but want to stay anonymous,” said Qaadir Islam.

As they work to build structures and support systems across Albany, Universal Concepts remains focused on what drives them: self-empowerment, opportunity, and community transformation.

“One building, and one person, at a time.”

For donations towards Universal Concepts mission click here.

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(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)