H.R. No. 657



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, Since its inception, the Seaborne ChalleNGe Corps 
has encouraged young Texans to attain their very highest potential 
both in school and in life; and
	WHEREAS, An initiative of Texas A&M University at Galveston, 
the Seaborne ChalleNGe Corps is operated by the Texas National 
Guard with funding from the federal government, the State of Texas, 
and private foundations; and
	WHEREAS, This vital program addresses the economic and social 
problems that result when students drop out of school; now in its 
10th year, the Seaborne ChalleNGe Corps provides education, 
training, and career development for at-risk youth; and
	WHEREAS, 300 young Texans, male and female, ages 16 to 18, are 
annually accepted into the program; participants who complete a 
rigorous two-week pre-challenge phase go on to take part in a 
22-week residential phase; four days each week are focused on 
academic studies, two days are dedicated to community service, and 
the remaining day is reserved for incentive events and voluntary 
attendance at Galveston area houses of worship; and
	WHEREAS, Students contribute to the vitality of their 
communities and learn valuable skills while lending their time to 
local entities, including The University of Texas Medical Center, 
the county courthouse, the American Red Cross, the County Senior 
Citizens Center, and an after school tutoring program; and
	WHEREAS, After graduation, participants continue with a 
one-year post-residential phase; teamed with a trained mentor, they 
are offered support and guidance as they become established in new 
jobs, military service, or an institution of higher learning; and
	WHEREAS, By developing the potential of Texas youth and 
encouraging involvement in the community, the Seaborne ChalleNGe 
Corps is making a positive contribution not only in the lives of its 
participants but also to the future of this state and nation; now, 
therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas 
Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby pay tribute to all Seaborne 
ChalleNGe Corps graduates, current participants, and staff, as well 
as to the Adjutant General's Department and all past and present 
mentors; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 
prepared for the Seaborne ChalleNGe Corps as an expression of high 
regard by the Texas House of Representatives.

                                                                          Eiland

                                                  ______________________________
                                                       Speaker of the House     

	I certify that H.R. No. 657 was adopted by the House on May 
15, 2006, by a non-record vote.

                                                  ______________________________
                                                     Chief Clerk of the House