The ChalleNGe Experience
The ChalleNGe experience has transformed the lives of over 58,000 youth. The changes are powerful, from the outside in, and the inside out! The positive results not only impact the graduates, but also their family and community. Read through the ChalleNGe Phases and Core Components for an overview of the experience, and then visit the Photo Gallery and Alumni Success Stories for proof of positive results.
Eligibility Requirements
For selection into the program, the applicant must be:
- 16 to 18 years of age and enter the program prior to the 19th birthday
- A high school dropout/expellee
- A citizen or legal resident of the United States and resident of the state in which the program is conducted
- Unemployed
- Not currently on parole or probation for anything other than juvenile status offenses. Not serving time or awaiting sentencing, not under indictment or charged, not convicted of a felony or capital offense.
- Drug free
How to Apply
For selection into the program, the applicant must be:
The Program
The National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program is a community-based program that leads, trains and mentors at-risk youth so that they may become productive citizens in America's future.
This award-winning program has been recognized as one of the nation's most effective and cost efficient programs for targeting youth who are at the greatest risk for substance abuse, teen pregnancy, delinquency, and criminal activity.
Youth ChalleNGe Program Success
ChalleNGe Phases
RESIDENTIAL PHASE
Pre-ChalleNGe: Included in the Residential Phase is a two-week Pre-ChalleNGe Phase during which applicants are assessed to determine their potential for successfully completing the program.
During this initial two-week phase, applicants have an opportunity to adjust to the physical and mental, and social discipline of the program. The focus is on teamwork, close order drill, code of conduct, leadership and followership practicums, and physical fitness training.
Core Components
- Leadership/Followership. Identification and application of individual moral and ethical standards is the focus of the various roles and responsibilities as the cadets live and learn in a structured group environment.
- Responsible Citizenship. The U.S. Government structure and processes, along with individual rights and responsibilities at the local, state and national level are addressed in the classroom environment, in the student government process, and through practical experiences within local communities.
