PO Box 17492, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 admin@hawaiiyouthchallengefoundation.site
About Program Impact Contact Support Youth
501(c)(3) Nonprofit · EIN: 81-0625413

Transforming
Hawaii's Youth
Into Leaders

The Hawaii Youth Challenge Foundation supports the Hawaii National Guard Youth Challenge Academy — a life-changing program that helps at-risk youth develop discipline, character, and the skills to succeed.

Learn About the Program Support a Cadet
10,000+ Graduates Since 1993
75% Earn HS Diploma/GED
22 Weeks Residential Program
Honolulu Hawaii
About Us

Supporting Hawaii's Most
Promising At-Risk Youth

The Hawaii Youth Challenge Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides critical financial and community support to the Hawaii National Guard Youth Challenge Academy — one of the most successful youth intervention programs in the nation.

Our foundation bridges the gap between government funding and the full range of support our cadets need — from scholarships and mentorship to post-residential support that ensures long-term success for Hawaii's most vulnerable young people.

30+ Years of Impact
2x National Award Winner
100% Dedicated to Youth
Cadets
National Award-Winning Program
The Program

A Proven Path to Success

The Hawaii National Guard Youth Challenge Academy is a 22-week residential program that provides at-risk youth ages 16–18 with the structure, education, and life skills they need to become productive citizens.

Phase 1

Acclimation

2-week intensive orientation where cadets learn discipline, teamwork, and the program's core values.

Phase 2

Residential

20-week structured program with academic instruction, physical fitness, leadership development, and life skills training.

Phase 3

Post-Residential

12-month mentorship and follow-up support to help graduates transition successfully into education, employment, or military service.

Academic Excellence
Physical Fitness
Leadership
Service to Community
Job Skills
Life Coping Skills
Responsible Citizenship
Tranquility
Our Impact

Changing Lives Across Hawaii

75% Earn High School Diploma or GED
60% Employed or in Higher Education
15% Join Military Service
10,000+ Lives Transformed Since 1993

"The Youth Challenge Academy gave me the discipline and confidence I needed to turn my life around. Today I'm a college graduate and serving my community — I owe everything to this program."

— Hawaii Youth Challenge Academy Graduate
Cadets
Graduation
Ceremony