Who is eligible to attend the Oregon Youth Challenge Program (OYCP)?
Applicants from all over Oregon are eligible to apply and compete for admission. Applicants must be academically deficient, expelled, or a high school dropout and be between the ages of 16-18. The applicant must be a legal U.S. citizen and resident of Oregon. The applicant must never have been convicted of a felony and have no legal action pending. The applicant must be free of illegal drugs at the time of enrollment and physically and mentally able to complete the program. There is no cost to attend OYCP. The program is FREE to the applicant.
What is the cost to attend OYCP?
The Oregon Youth Challenge Program, as part of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program, is operated through a Cooperative Agreement between the National Guard Bureau and the State of Oregon. This means it is funded by Federal and State dollars making the Program absolutely free to eligible applicants and their families.
Does OYCP accept applicants under the age of 16?
No, applicants must be at least 16 and no more than 18 years old at the time the class starts.
Does OYCP accept applicants over the age of 18?
No, applicants must be at least 16 and no more than 18 years old at the time the class starts. The applicant can turn 19 years old during the class.
How does the program operate?
OYCP is a residential program that incorporates a highly structured quasi-military format emphasizing self-discipline, personal responsibility, and positive motivation. Applicants, who are referred to as cadets while at OYCP, must meet military grooming standards, wear military type uniforms, and observe standard military customs and courtesies. Each class involves a 3-phase program that begins with a two-week Red phase where the goal is to identify those applicants that have the desire and discipline to complete the program. Applicants who successfully complete Red phase enter the 20-week White & Blue phases where the emphasis is on the “Eight Core Component” curriculum. Cadets must show improvement in each component.
Academic Excellence
Health & Hygiene
Job Skills
Leadership/Followership
Life Coping Skills
Physical Fitness
Responsible Citizenship
Service To Community
After completing White & Blue phases, cadets begin a one -year Post-Residential phase where each cadet works with an adult role model in a one-on-one mentoring relationship. The adult mentor provides the cadet advice, guidance, and support to help him/her continue the positive successes and direction achieved during the Residential phases.
How do you enroll in the program?
The first step of the enrollment process is to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements. After that, you must to attend one of our mandatory orientations. Please see our page “How To Apply” for detailed steps in the application process.
Is there an orientation for applicants and guardians?
Yes, all applicants are required to attend a mandatory orientation briefing as part of the application process. During this four-hour briefing, applicants and guardians are briefed on all aspects and expectations of the Program. Applicants and guardians also get the opportunity to ask questions of current cadets and staff. See our “Schedule An Orientation” page for dates and times.
Is this a way for my child to join the Military?
No. There is no obligation to join the military. OYCP uses the quasi-military format to emphasize self-discipline, personal responsibility, and positive motivation.
Can I force my child to attend the program?
No. This program is 100% voluntary. No parent, court, judge or probation officer can force the applicant to come. The applicant must make the decision to attend the program.
Is the Program Co-Ed?
Yes, the Program is open to males and females.
Can the Cadets receive letters and emails?
Yes. We highly encourage letter/email writing for your Cadet. It provides them motivation and helps with homesickness. Mail is delivered daily except on Sundays and holidays. Emails are distributed nightly. Please see our page “Cadet Contact Information” for detailed instructions.
Are there phone privileges?
Only in the case of emergencies. One of the platoon leaders will coordinate the call.
Do Cadets need money at OYCP?
No. Absolutely no money is permitted at OYCP.
Is there weekend leave or visitation during the 22-Week Residential Phase?
Yes. There are two weekend breaks during the class where the Cadets depart from our facility and return. The first break usually takes place around week 6 of the class and the second break takes place around week 18. There is a one-day visitation during the class at week 13 for immediate family members and legal guardians only (i.e. brothers, sisters, grandparents). Cousins, boyfriends, or girlfriends are not permitted at visitation.