More than 230 young people begin 22-week National Guard program in Juana Díaz
By THE STAR STAFF
More than 230 young people began the 22-week residential program of the Puerto Rico Youth ChalleNGe Academy -- part of the Puerto Rico National Guard -- this week, as members of Class 27-01 at the Fort Allen facility in Juana Díaz.
“Each of these young people has made the decision to accept a challenge that will demand discipline, commitment, and perseverance,” Adjutant General of Puerto Rico Carlos Rivera Román said in a written statement. “Over these 22 weeks, they will have the opportunity to discover their own capabilities, strengthen their character, and acquire tools they can use long after completing the program.”
The intake process began this past Sunday with initial evaluations of the candidates, followed by an acclimatization phase designed to familiarize them with the academy’s rules, discipline and routines.
Throughout the program, participants will combine academic activities and physical conditioning with training in leadership, teamwork, emotional management, conflict resolution and community service.
Puerto Rico Youth ChalleNGe Academy Director Matilde Almodóvar Acosta highlighted the personal development opportunities available to the youth during their time in the program.
“This phase will bring with it challenges, lessons, sacrifices, and, above all, great opportunities for them to discover what they are truly capable of,” Almodóvar Acosta said.
The Puerto Rico Youth ChalleNGe Academy serves young people between the ages of 16 and 18 through a structured program that offers opportunities to continue their education, acquire new skills, and develop habits aligned with their academic, professional and personal goals.
Members of Class 27-01 will remain in the acclimatization phase before moving on to the subsequent stages of their training at Fort Allen.
