The National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program

Cadets in the National Guard's Youth ChalleNGe program were at-risk teens who dropped out of school, but given the right opportunity, they overcame obstacles and reached their dreams.

* Summer Gales was a homeless dropout who became a gifted educator. Her story >

* Kevin Dinnel was in juvenile hall for substance abuse and fighting, but now he's on his way to his life-long dream -- flight school. His story >

* Read many more Cadet Success Stories and Parent Success Stories here >

Youth ChalleNGe helps teens to become productive citizens by focusing on:

• citizenship
• academic excellence
• life-coping skills
• service to community
• health and hygiene
• job skills training
• leadership/followership
• and physical training.

Youth ChalleNGe is one of the nation's most effective programs for helping youth who are at the greatest risk for substance abuse, teen pregnancy, delinquency, and criminal activity. Most cadets earn their GED/high school diploma, enter the workforce, contribute hours of community service, and many join the military or further their education. More info >

Looking for your door to open? You might be eligible to apply for Youth ChalleNGe >