North Carolina's Tarheel ChalleNGe Academy is a quasi-military program for high school dropouts, or expellees who, if left unguided, could be headed for trouble. The Program concentrates on providing these young adults with the discipline and life skills necessary to be productive members of society.

The North Carolina National Guard sponsors the Tarheel ChalleNGe Academy, located in Sampson County near Clinton, N.C. However, there are no military obligations for attending the Tarheel ChalleNGe Academy. Cadets are free to choose military service as one of their options, but are not required to do so

The Tarheel ChalleNGe Academy is a volunteer program. Anyone can recommend and assist cadets. However, an applicant must volunteer for the training and be motivated and committed to turning his/her life around through this "second chance." There is no cost to the cadet or the cadet's family other than personal items like toiletries.