Rep. McKinley Helps Troubled Youth with Support for National Guard Youth Challenge Program

Press Release

Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-WV) joined with his House colleagues in passing the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2014, which includes his National Guard Youth Challenge Program amendment. Reps. Grace Napolitano (D-CA), Jerry McNerney (D-CA) and Alan Lowenthal (D-CA) are co-sponsors of the amendment.

"We all face different struggles growing up and some of us overcome those challenges while others have a harder time," said Rep. McKinley. "Over the years, the National Guard Youth Challenge program has successfully helped thousands of young men and women who needed a helping hand or a second chance at life. That's why this program must continue as it helps build our future leaders."

McKinley's amendment increases funds for the program by $10 million for a total of $135 million to The National Guard Youth Challenge Program which has helped more than 115,000 youth graduate from high school and gain the skills and values to succeed.

"I am proud to join my colleagues in continuing to give our youngsters every chance to succeed," said Rep. Napolitano. "Thanks to increased funding, many more graduates of this critical program will go on to serve in our military, while others will further their studies or use their new skills to get jobs."

The mission of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program is to intervene in and reclaim the lives of 16-18 year old high school dropouts, producing program graduates with the values, life skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to succeed as productive citizens. The amendment passed unanimously and is included in the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2014.

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