Module 2: Overview of the ChalleNGe Program

Watch the YouTube video below, which introduces “The 8 Core Components” of the Youth ChalleNGe Program, and then complete the readings and activities that follow.


Objectives:

  • List the Eight Core Components for Cadets in NGYCP.
  • Be exposed to the principles and attributes of NGYCP.
  • 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.

Checklist:

___ Review the Resources
___ Complete Activities
___ Complete the Module 2 Training Questions

Resources:

Activities:

  • Link – Facebook: Like the IDYCA page on Facebook to receive Program notifications and communicate with other Mentors, Parents, and Cadets.
  • Link – IDYCA YouTube Channel: View our Program’s activity and promotional videos.
  • Review Benefits of Mentoring:
    • Mentoring Benefits for Cadets:
      • Improved academic performance
      • Reduce the likelihood of dropping out of the ChalleNGe Program
      • Reduces the incidence of high risk behaviors such as substance use and abuse, carrying a weapon, unsafe sex and violence
      • Helps young people live up to their academic, emotional and social potential
      • Helps develop the competence and character to succeed as adults
    • Mentoring Benefits for Mentors:
      • Increased feelings of self-worth
      • Collaborative problem solving
      • Increased social and volunteer activity
      • Increased patience
      • Improvement in relationships with other family members and unanticipated enjoyment in activities with youth
      • A feeling of effectiveness
      • Development of a new skill (listening and working with people)
      • Expanded social network
  • Can you list additional benefits to mentoring for the Mentor? Mentee? Society? Why did you decide to be a Mentor? Can you find your reason within the list? If not, add it.

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