What is the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program?
The National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program consists of a multi-phase program; serves at-promise youth ages 16 to 18; includes a structured 5 1/2-month Residential Phase focused on education and life skills, followed by a 24-month (two-year) Post-Residential Phase where graduates receive ongoing support, guidance, and regular check-ins to help them stay on track.
How can my child apply to ChalleNGe?
Each ChalleNGe program oversees its own admissions process. Prospective cadets should contact local programs directly to learn about specific application requirements and deadlines. Click here to see the application steps for Grizzly Youth Academy.
Will my child be able to get a GED at ChalleNGe?
Every ChalleNGe program offers academic classes. Many youth are able to obtain their GED during the 5 1/2-month Residential Phase, but in order to graduate from the program it is expected that all youth raise their math and reading levels.
Is military service required upon completion of the ChalleNGe program?
No. Although ChalleNGe is ‘quasi-military’ in structure, cadets are not obligated or expected to join the service.
Is military service an option after graduating from the ChalleNGe program?
If military service is a goal after graduation, during the program they will have the opportunity to learn more about how to prepare themselves for the possibility of military service.
Is this a voluntary program?
YES. All youth participating in ChalleNGe must do so VOLUNTARILY.
Are there any costs to participants of this program?
NO. This program is offered free of charge to its participants.
What is the cost per student and who pays for it?
The National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program is one of the most cost-effective programs for high-risk youth in the nation. While it costs approximately $28,000 per cadet to provide the full program—including a 5 1/2-month Residential Phase followed by a 24-month Post-Residential Phase. There is no cost to families once a cadet is accepted as these funds are provided through federal and state partnerships.
When did the program begin?
The National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program began as a ten-state pilot program in 1993 by an act of Congress. In 1998, following a comprehensive evaluation, Congress approved the ChalleNGe program as a permanent program.
What are the plans for the ChalleNGe program?
It is hoped that the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe program will be extended to all states that wish to have one. Each year, new states are added. Program leaders expect that the program will serve as many as 20,000 new relationships each year.
What is the purpose of ChalleNGe?
The purpose of the ChalleNGe Program is to develop the life skills, educational levels, and employment potential of at-risk youth through a structured intervention model. The ChalleNGe model focuses on eight core components that together improve cadet skills and facilitate holistic growth.