Objectives:

• List the Eight Core Components for Cadets in MSYCA.
• Be exposed to the principles and attributes of MSYCA.
• Consider benefits of mentoring.

Key Points:

The National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program (NGYCP) is a free, co-educational, preventative program for high school dropouts aged 16-18 years old (age on check-in day). The mission is “to intervene in the lives of at-risk youth and produce Program graduates with the values, skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to succeed as adults.” The Program accomplishes this mission through a structured 17-½ month program, which gives youth the opportunity to improve life skills and employment potential, through development in Core Component areas.

ChalleNGe is managed by the National Guard Bureau. The Program embraces a “quasi-military” philosophy. Quasi means “resembling somebody or something, in some ways, but not the same.” The Program is based on principles, such as self-discipline, teamwork, self-esteem, personal responsibility, ethics, goal setting, and community service. ChalleNGe is not a boot camp. Program graduates are not, in any way, required or expected to enlist in the military upon graduation. Cadets self-select into the Program and are not forced to participate.