New Jersey Youth Challenge Academy

A great opportunity for cadets to develop core values in a structured environment which fosters accountability, service, knowledge, fitness and commitment. Becoming a mentor has been rewarding from day one. Nothing is more satisfying than encouraging and supporting the cadets as they’re transforming their lives and securing their future.

The NJYCA is an awesome place for young adults to grow their future. The facilities are modern and well maintained. The staff is super professional and dedicated to the cadets. Highly recommend!

My son just graduated (Class 55) and I have nothing but positive things to say about this program. He has his HS diploma and a whole new outlook on life. He's very motivated and goal oriented now. This program was the "change" he needed to succeed. Thank you to all of the wonderful staff at the Academy. You're hardwork and dedication to these kids has not gone unnoticed.

WASTE OF TIME. They made us jump through hoops with paperwork. Then denied my son. And that's fine. But at the bottom of the rejection letter It said call for any questions. When I called and left multiple messages no one ever called back to maybe tell us what we could improve for our chances next year. A man from the Academy finally did call back and asked why me why he wasn't accepted. He said he'd look into it and of course never called back. In 2 weeks at our local college he passed his equivalency test and got a diploma. Now going into airforce. I am glad he didn't go because I had no idea how unprofessional this academy is

As a guy it can be fun, if your knuckle head and rough around the edges to start with.
BEWARE of the Staff Sargents who prey on the young girls. Intimacy definitely happened on base. I wouldn't send my daughter there.

Overheard from my sons friend that their experiences here are horrible and no place to send a teenager. Poor leadership, fights, inattentive and ignorant staff, as well as teaching that is really no better than some of the worst high schools. I guess it’s worth it as a last resort. Also, from word of mouth by someone who may or may not be in the Army: shared A LOT about this place, and would stay away.

Suspicious stuff goes on here.

I graduated in 2000. It is nothing now like it was 20 years ago. It was legit boot camp. No going home AT ALL unless medically necessary or family emergency. Could not even call home for the first 60 days. Getting smoked at 3am running miles when in trouble. True military style BUT now with this new generation of softies, and people that get offended over ANYTHING, it was forced to be not as strict. Don't blame the program, blame this new generation of softies and the parents that raised them.