Commonwealth Challenge

Item 512 #1h

Language
Page 301, line 18, strike "$1,923,867" and insert "$2,283,867".
Page 301, line 18, strike "$1,934,681" and insert "$2,432,681".
Page 301, strike lines 22 through 26 and insert:
"Out of this appropriation, $360,000 in general funds the first year and $498,000 in general funds the second year is provided as a state match for the Commonwealth Challenge program, to supplement an in-kind match of $188,868 per year, which will enable the state to draw down federal funds in the amount of $1,646,364 in the first year and $1,602,680 in the second year."

Explanation
(This amendment provides $360,000 the first year and $498,000 the second year from the general fund to match federal funds available to continue the Commonwealth Challenge program at the State Military Reservation, Camp Pendleton, in Virginia Beach. The Commonwealth Challenge program is a residential option ($9,866/year) for troubled youth who have dropped out of school but have not entered the juvenile justice system. The program provides military style training and supervised work experience, to include community service work, while the youth pursue their GED. Following the intensive 5-month residential program, the youth participate in a 12-month mentor program with adults in the community who continue supervision. The Commonwealth Challenge program is designed to direct troubled youth who have dropped out of school toward a productive life through a highly structured and disciplined program which simultaneously provides the youth a GED and work experience.)