About Us

A man walking with two young girls in a rocky, desert landscape.

THE PURPOSE

For over six decades, Teen Challenge has changed lives and legacies. Teen Challenge began in 1958 by David Wilkerson to help drug addicts and gang members. Since then, Teen Challenge has expanded to more than 200 centers throughout the nation and in 83 countries worldwide, helping men, women, teens, and families. Our purpose is to facilitate long-term, true transformation from life-controlling such as addiction and trauma. A comprehensive program is offered, with a focus on developing positive life skills, applying biblical principles to relationships in the family, local church, workplace, and the community, and becoming self-sufficient, productive members of society.

A woman, a young girl, and a man smiling and hugging each other outdoors near a brick wall and black iron gate in a residential neighborhood.

THE PROGRAM

Men, women, teenagers, and families struggling with destructive, addictive, and abusive lifestyles, including addiction, behavioral issues, and trauma, are given specialized, residential care. Our aim is for each person to become emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy. Successful recovery is built through mentoring, education that incorporates social skills, parenting courses, character development, adult GED classes and a high school program for teens. Vocational training is also a component of the program and animal therapy at the girl’s center. We are honored to walk alongside those rebuilding their lives and changing the trajectory of their legacy.