We provide a supportive learning environment that challenges students to grow. We teach the students how to live a life to the point where they can function as contributing citizens in society by applying biblical principles to their lives, relationships in the family, the local church, their chosen vacation and the community.
WHAT DOES THE TEEN CHALLENGE RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM OFFER?
Teen Challenge offers “a total cure for the total person” through Jesus Christ by endeavoring to provide a structure for each resident’s spiritual, mental, physical, social, educational and vocational needs.
SPIRITUAL
Teen Challenge views the problems of drug and alcohol abuse and other life-controlling problems as mere symptoms of deeper needs. This is based on the biblical teaching from Romans 3:23 that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” An addict is not a sinner because he or she is a drug user, but rather drug use is the result of a sinful nature and attempting to supply the void in one’s life in all the wrong ways. Sin is at the heart of the issue of addiction. Jesus Christ offers both forgiveness of sin and the power to live drug free. The key to rehabilitation is based on II Corinthians 5:17 “If any man be in Christ Jesus he is a new creation, old things pass away; behold all things become new.”
MENTAL
The healing of the mind is the key to the addict’s recovery. Addiction is both physical and psychological. It is psychological, because long after the initial physical detoxification the desire may still be in the mind. It is through prayer and the continual study of the Word of God that the mind and the soul are renewed. Also, there are many other problems that addiction creates which affect the mental state of the user after withdrawal from drugs or alcohol, such as problems of guilt, broken relationships, fear, destructive self-image, etc. Through personal and group studies and counseling by concerned staff, the student is able to overcome these problems as he or she progresses toward wholeness.
3. PHYSICAL
Teen Challenge provides for the basic needs of the student for shelter, food, and when possible, for clothing while in the program. Students are required to fulfill work assignments and participate in recreation. If medical needs arise, Teen Challenge relies on local health care services. There is no provision for those with serious illnesses or diseases.
4. SOCIAL
Through the experience of group living students work out interpersonal relationships with other students; some whose backgrounds are very different from their own. They also learn to accept the counsel and authority of staff and interact with visitors and people they meet outside the program. This promotes growth of character, requires development of right attitudes, and leads to excellence in personal behavior.
5. EDUCATIONAL
Teen Challenge provides a structured twelve-month Christian educational program through participation in classroom studies and assigned homework. Whenever possible, the program is encouraged to provide remedial help for those students that need it. Some centers assist students fulfill the requirements for a high school equivalency diploma.
6. VOCATIONAL
Many Teen Challenge centers provide vocational training. The purpose of this part of the program is to encourage the development of the basic elements necessary to become a good worker. This becomes applied Christianity in the workplace. The student learns how to be on time, develop good work habits, relate to a supervisor and other workers as well as learn a trade. Many centers offer training in a variety of vocations in which the student can learn at least basic skills.
RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM
" Come to me , all you who are weary and burdened , and I will give you rest ." Matthew 11:28 NIV