Program 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.

The applicants who successfully complete this phase earn the distinction of becoming a full-fledged cadets. Over 90% of these cadets will successfully complete the program.

The Residential Phase of the program consists of 22 weeks conducted in 2 phases: a 2-week Pre-ChalleNGe Phase and a 20-week ChalleNGe Residential Phase. The residential facilities, located on an active or closed National Guard base, a National Guard training center, or school campus, accommodate an average of 100 participants, with separate quarters for men and women. Several states have more than 100 youths in their program.

Residential: In the 20-week Residential Phase, daily activities and service to the community experiences build the cadet's job skills and self-concept. The academic program prepares cadets for the G.E.D. (General Education Development) exam given at the end of the Residential Phase. Cadets also develop a Life Plan that outlines their 12-month Post-Residential plan.

Mentors are matched with cadets midway through the Residential Phase. The mentors help support the cadets during the remainder of the Residential Phase and help them prepare to reenter community life. Mentors continue their responsibilities during the 12-month Post-Residential Phase.

POST-RESIDENTIAL PHASE

The 12-month Post-Residential Phase begins when graduates return to their communities, continue in higher education or enter the military. The goal of this phase is for graduates to sustain and build on the gains made during the Residential Phase. In addition, they must continue to develop and implement their Life Plans.

The mentors, matched with cadets during the Residential Phase, play a critical role in ensuring their continued success. They help youth transition from the structured environment of the Residential Phase to self-management. The mentors also support and guide the cadets through implementation of their Life Plans.