VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. –
Cadets of Class 63 of the Virginia Commonwealth Challenge Youth Academy experienced an interactive, educational simulation designed to help them gain practical insight into real-world financial decision-making Nov. 15, 2025, at the State Military Reservation in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Through assigned life scenarios, the Reality Store forced students to manage a monthly budget and make informed choices about housing, transportation, food, childcare, insurance, and other essential expenses.
This activity was hosted by the CCYA Counseling Department in collaboration with BayPort Credit Union, as part of its Life Coping Skills class, one of the eight core components of the program. The experience aims to build financial literacy, foster critical thinking, and encourage responsible planning for future life goals.
“The event was made possible thanks to the Sailors and CCYA staff who volunteered, ensuring its smooth and successful execution,” said Julie Rosario-Kenas, lead counselor at CCYA.
Class 63 cadets are scheduled to graduate from ChalleNGe Dec. 18, 2025, in Virginia Beach.
Commonwealth ChalleNGe is the Virginia component of the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program. ChalleNGe is a 29-and-a-half-month program which includes a five-and-a-half-month residential phase, followed by a 24-month post-residential phase. It is free to Virginia teens aged 15 ½ - 18.