Program for at-risk youth has graduated more than 16,000 Georgians

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recognizes the 25^th anniversary of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program.

“First started by Georgia Senators Sam Nunn and Saxby Chambliss, this program has helped thousands of youth discover their potential and set them on the path to a successful future,”said Senator Perdue. “I’m proud of the work the National Guard Youth Challenge Program is doing here in Georgia to mentor and advocate for the next generation of leaders and our workforce.”

“I’m grateful for the dedicated individuals who are supporting the Georgia Youth Challenge Academies and helping thousands of young men and women in our state turn their lives around,”said Tina Coria, Chairman of the Georgia National Guard Youth Challenge Foundation. “We are proud that this remarkably successful program got its humble roots from forward-thinking Georgians, and continues to grow thanks to the leadership of Senator Perdue.” 

Beginning in October 2017, the National Guard Youth Challenge Program marked its 25th anniversary with celebrations at the state and national level lasting through October 2018. The nationwide program provides free alternative education and structured discipline programs for at-risk youth between the ages of 16 and 18. Georgia’s academies, located at Ft. Stewart, Ft. Gordon and Milledgeville, have graduated more than 16,000 cadets representing all 159 counties in Georgia.