DREAM.
BELIEVE.
ACHIEVE.
Deeds, Not Words!
The mission of the New Jersey Youth ChalleNGe Academy is to be a leadership academy for youth so they become responsible and productive citizens of their community, state, and country. We will do so by providing unique transformational experiences through a highly disciplined 22-week residential program that integrates a quasi-military training environment, innovative academic offerings, and opportunities to further develop their physical, social, and intellectual abilities. In partnership with a mentor, they will receive continued guidance and support during their one-year post residential phase immediately following graduation.
A National Guard Program
FEATURES
RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM
NJYCA is a 22-week on site program held at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, NJ.
ZERO COST
The program is free to parents and guardians.
ACADEMICS
Cadets pursue academics for credit recovery or to test for a NJ High School Diploma.
STRUCTURE
Cadets are exposed to healthy routines and a disciplined environment.
NJYCA is excited to welcome our 60th class to the National Guard Training Center in July 2025.
Countdown to Class 59
My son graduated from class 49! He came home a changed person. I am so happy that I took the leap of faith and put him in the hands of the NJ Youth ChalleNGe Academy staff! Thank you to every single staff member!
This is a great program for at risk teens. This program will strive to redirect, uplift and add confidence to those that need it. My son just graduated and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made!!!
30th Anniversary
Forty cadets graduated NJYCA in a ceremony at the National Guard Armory in Lawrenceville, NJ on December 16, 2024.
They join a proud lineage of more than 4,500 graduates in the 30 years since the program’s inception in 1994.
