The Mississippi National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program is once again accepting applications for its next class schedule to begin July 14. Located at the Mississippi National Guard Training Center Camp Shelby, Miss., ChalleNGe is a five-month residential Military Structured GED and Mentoring Program for 16-18 at risk youth who are not being successful in the traditional school environment. ChalleNGe is not a boot camp however it can be very challenging. The ChalleNGe Academy graduates two classes a year, with classes beginning in January and July. The students who enroll must have a desire to make changes in their lives, physically, academically, and emotionally. Both male and females are encouraged to apply.

Important features of the Mississippi Challenge Program is that it offers a chance for Students to receive GED (General Education Diploma) an Adult High School Diploma, and a full first-year apprenticeship in a craft area with national certification and transcripts from the National Center for Construction, Education and Research. Students are matched with an adult mentor upon graduation.

In the last 12 years more than 4,800 students have graduated from the ChalleNGe Academy with graduates easily finding employment or continuing their education in colleges, technical schools, or vocational schools. A large number have joined different branches of the military. Mississippi’s ChalleNGe Program has been ranked the “Best Overall” ChalleNGe Program out of the 28 other such programs in the U.S.

For more information call (800) 507-6253 or visit the Web site www.ngycp/state/ms.