Fort McCoy hosts enrollment for class 53 of Wisconsin Challenge Academy

Tomah, Wis. (WKBT) -- Class 53 of the National Guard's Wisconsin Challenge Academy started their journey at Fort McCoy Wednesday.

The academy is an alternative education program designed to reclaim the lives of at-risk youth.

Founded in 1998, its mission is to help young people build the life skills necessary to become successful adults.

Enrollment took place this morning at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

The academy's director believes the program gives at-risk youth a second chance.

"Kids that I talk to right after graduation tell me they're so thankful I allowed them to come in, they're so thankful that this was a lifechanging experience for them, and they tell me that coming here actually saved their life. They tell me they could be in jail or be home sitting on the couch, this program actually changed their life," said Director Joni Matthews.

After a 22-week residential phase, cadets are encouraged to continue their education, find work, join the military, or volunteer in their communities.