National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program

The National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program is a 17-month intensive residential program for high school dropouts ages 16-18. The program consists of three phases: a two-week Pre-ChalleNGe orientation and assessment period, a 20-week Residential Phase built around eight core components (Leadership/Followership, Responsible Citizenship, Service to Community, Life-Coping Skills, Physical Fitness, Health and Hygiene, Job Skills, and Academic Excellence), and a one-year Postresidential Phase featuring structured mentoring. During the first two phases, participants live at the program site in a quasi-military environment with military-style discipline, though there are no requirements for military service. The program aims to help young people obtain a high school diploma or GED, develop life skills, improve physical fitness, and prepare for employment, education, or military service. The Postresidential Phase distinguishes ChalleNGe from most residential programs by providing ongoing mentoring support to help participants maintain new attitudes and behaviors when they return to their communities.