Community Service

NJ Youth ChalleNGe cadets participate in community service projects in order to create a sense of responsibility and to understand and develop an appreciation for the intrinsic value of volunteerism and conservationism.

Collectively, the cadets of the Youth ChalleNGe Academy have logged in thousands of man-hours conserving and beautifying the environment through such projects as the NJ Adopt-A-Highway Program, Woodland Restoration in Cape May Point State Park and park maintenance and conservation in both historic Washington Crossing State Park and Fort Mifflin, which is a national landmark.
New Jersey Adopt-A-Highway Program      

Throughout the year, NJ Youth ChalleNGe cadets service areas of Routes 68 and 70 as participants in the NJ Adopt-A-Highway Program.  The roadways serviced total 15 miles or more.  Thousands of pounds of debris have been removed, thus making a substantial contribution to local community clean-up efforts. 

Cape May Point State Park

NJ Youth ChalleNGe cadets have worked tirelessly to assist in Woodland Restoration efforts in beautiful Cape May Point State Park, home of the Cape May Lighthouse.  Over the past couple of years they have removed acres of various ubiquitous vines that have been strangling and attempting to destroy trees and other vegetation in the park.  Several species of wildlife have been placed on the "Endangered List" due to their dependence on the trees, shrubs and other vegetation that have been threatened.  The cadets' volunteer efforts have saved the state of New Jersey thousands of dollars in removal fees.  No monetary value, however, can be placed on conserving the wildlife of New Jersey, which is why the contributions of the NJ Youth ChalleNGe cadets are considered priceless.

                    

Washington Crossing State Park

As the name implies, Washington Crossing Park is the historic place where General George Washington and his men crossed the Delaware River and defeated the Hessian troops in a surprise attack on 25 December 1776.  It was one of the most pivotal moments in the Revolutionary War.  Originally preserved for its historical significance, the park is also well known for its hiking trails and wildlife.  NJ Youth ChalleNGe cadets worked side-by-side with park employees to install over 400 feet of post and wire fence.  Additionally, they mulched around park trees and shrubs to make the area more enjoyable for park visitors.