STARKE, Fla. — Cadets at the Florida Youth Challenge Academy graduated for the final time as the program closed its doors after 25 years.
The Florida National Guard-operated alternative program for youth held its last ceremony for Class 50, the final residential class based at Camp Blanding in Starke.
The Youth Challenge Program trained and mentored at-risk 16 to 18 year old high school dropouts.
Earlier this year, officials said the increased demand on the National Guard led leaders to decide to end the program and refocus resources.
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