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National Guard Youth Challenge Program Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

The Salvation Army

Youth Development Director

Norridge, IL · On-site

$58K - $70K/yr

... Guards, Adventure Corps, Moonbeams, Cherubs, Youth Bands, Singing Company, Children's Worship, Junior Solders, Corps Cadets etc.) to plan and lead their programs and events. * Work closely with all ...

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All JobsNational Guard Youth Challenge Program JobsNational Guard Youth Challenge Program Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

National Guard Youth Challenge Program information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$33K

$98.8K

$153K

How much do national guard youth challenge program jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for national guard youth challenge program in Park Ridge, IL is $98,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,400.00 and $129,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the National Guard Youth Challenge Program?

The National Guard Youth Challenge Program is a voluntary, residential program designed to help at-risk youth between the ages of 16 and 18 get back on track academically and personally. The program focuses on discipline, education, physical fitness, and life skills, offering participants the opportunity to earn a high school diploma or GED. Over the course of 22 weeks, cadets participate in a structured environment, followed by a 12-month post-residential mentoring phase to support their continued success. The program is operated by the National Guard in partnership with state and local agencies across the United States.

What are some of the unique challenges staff members face when working with cadets in the National Guard Youth Challenge Program?

Staff in the National Guard Youth Challenge Program often work with at-risk youth who may have experienced academic struggles or personal hardships. This can present challenges such as building trust, addressing behavioral issues, and maintaining a supportive yet disciplined environment. Team members must collaborate closely to provide structure, mentorship, and encouragement, often adapting strategies to meet individual cadet needs. The work is highly rewarding but requires patience, resilience, and strong communication skills to foster positive outcomes for cadets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a National Guard Youth Challenge Program team member, and why are they important?

To thrive in the National Guard Youth Challenge Program, you need experience in youth mentorship, education, or counseling, often supported by a background in social work, teaching, or military service. Familiarity with behavior management systems, case management software, and CPR/first aid certification is commonly required. Leadership, patience, strong communication, and the ability to motivate and inspire at-risk youth are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial for guiding participants toward academic, personal, and career success within a structured, supportive environment.

What is the difference between National Guard Youth Challenge Program vs Youth Counselor?

AspectNational Guard Youth Challenge ProgramYouth Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, background checkHigh school diploma or GED, relevant counseling certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentResidential program, structured military-style environmentSchool or community settings, counseling offices
Employer & IndustryU.S. National Guard, education and youth development

The National Guard Youth Challenge Program is a structured, military-style program aimed at at-risk youth, focusing on discipline, education, and life skills. Youth Counselors typically work in schools or community centers, providing guidance and support to young people. While both roles involve working with youth and require similar educational credentials, the Program emphasizes a structured, residential environment with a focus on discipline, whereas Youth Counselors often work in less formal settings providing counseling and mentorship.

What job categories do people searching National Guard Youth Challenge Program jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for National Guard Youth Challenge Program jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for National Guard Youth Challenge Program jobs?

Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most National Guard Youth Challenge Program job openings:

National Guard Youth Challenge Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various National Guard Youth Challenge Program job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,759 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Bilingual Youth Worker_JOR

NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCATE PROGRAM

Bolingbrook, IL • On-site

$49K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Interact with youth to develop trusting, supportive relationships and assist them in achieving identified goals.

  • Provide leadership and create a warm, caring, and safe environment for youth during program activities.

  • Complete all relevant training, documentation, and activity preparations as required by standards and program needs.

National Youth Advocate Program rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Working At NYAP
  • NYAP's commitment to doing what is best for children, youth and their families is a core value and one that we look for in our newest team members.
  • 33 Paid days off each year! (11 holidays + 22 days PTO)
  • Healthcare Benefits for you and your family
  • Pet insurance that provides discounts and reimbursements
  • Competitive salaries and benefits including a 401(k), Summer Hours Off (Half-day Fridays and Work Anniversary Trips!)
  • Mileage Reimbursement, Phone Allowance, Student Loan Repayment Assistance, CEU's and ongoing trainings/education
  • Why Work with Us? Exciting Benefits and Opportunities at NYAP!

The Youth Worker/Transportation for La Jornada works to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the families being served by the National Youth Advocate Program by working closely with the youth and family to provide advocacy and support towards targeted goals.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • The Youth Worker for La Jornada will perform duties including, but not limited to:
  • Perform all work in a manner consistent with the National Youth Advocate Program's Mission, Values and Philosophies.
  • Interact with the youth to develop a trusting, supportive relationship while assisting the youth in achieving identified goals.
  • Provide youth with the appropriate leadership during the program.
  • Provide a warm, caring and safe atmosphere for youth.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Report any problems which arise to the Out of School Coordinator.
  • Responsible for all activity and room preparations for the program.
  • Complete all relevant training on a timely basis as required by state, contract, and/or licensing agency standards.
  • Complete all required documentation in a timely manner.
  • Maintain a positive attitude toward all youth, co-workers, families and others involved with the program.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Excellent Interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and interact effectively with minors.
  • Patience, empathy, and the ability to provide emotional support to minors as they navigate various developmental stages.
  • Flexibility and adaptability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
  • Previous experience and proficiency in the use of various office machines, including computers.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel and Word.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish fluency.
  • Must have a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, automotive insurance, and a good driving record.
  • Minimum automobile insurance coverage of $100,000/300,000 bodily injury liability.
  • Proficient use of desktop and laptop computers, internet search, people management programs, smart phones and tablets, printers, fax machines and photocopiers as well as software including word processing, spreadsheet and database programs.
  • 21 years of age, valid driver's license.

OTHER SKILLS
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Sensitivity to cultural diversity.
  • Enthusiastic self-starter.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and administrative skills.
  • Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Works well independently and as a team member.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Use of manual dexterity, tactile, visual, and audio acuity.
  • Use of repetitive motion, prolonged periods of sitting and standing, and sustained visual and mental applications and demands.
  • Occasional lifting (up to 25 pounds), bending, pulling, and carrying.
  • Ability to travel frequently and drive vehicle while sitting for extended periods, with frequency varying based on program demands.
  • Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer who celebrates diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees by prohibiting discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Who we are
The National Youth Advocate Program has been serving communities and clients since 1978 and we continue to grow each year. Our growth allows us to expand and develop new and innovative programs to meet the ever-changing needs of those we serve. We offer unique and personalized services for families and individuals in four areas: Prevention/Intervention, Positive Youth Development, Out-of-Home-Placement and Reunification/Permanency.
We look for individuals that are ready to make a direct impact and are excited to be an instrument in supporting the needs of our children, youth and families.

What National Youth Advocate Program employees say

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