About Teen Challenge
Teen Challenge is the oldest, largest and most successful program of its kind in the world. Established in 1958 by David Wilkerson, Teen Challenge has grown to more than 120 centers in the United States and 250 centers world-wide. If you would like to know the story of how Teen Challenge started as told in the book "The Cross and the Switchblade," visit this page where you can order a copy of the book.
Teen Challenge offers a number of services to the community, many times free of charge. For over 30 years, Teen Challenge has been going into schools around the world working with teens to educate them about the dangers of drugs. Our school teams consist of 8-10 Teen Challenge residents and a staff member. These are men and women who once had problems with drugs, so they know what they are talking about when they talk to teens. For younger children we have a puppet show that we use to educate them in a way that they can easily understand. Our presentations usually run from 45 minutes to an hour in length. Any school or Boy/Girl scout troop that is interested in scheduling a visit should contact the nearest Teen Challenge center.
Teen Challenge reaches out to people in juvenile halls, jails, and prisons. Our "jail teams" help show inmates that their is hope for them to turn their lives around. And more importantly, we educate them in how to change their lives!
Many of our centers offer a one-year residential program for adults designed to help men and women learn how to live drug-free lives. During their 1-year stay, they do not hold down outside jobs, as all of their attention is focused on the program. We challenge the residents to embrace the Christian faith. We see that when they do, their lives are transformed and they find true meaning and purpose.
Residents follow strict rules and discipline. All residents adhere to a daily schedule which includes chapel, Bible classes and work assignments on or near the grounds. For information on Teen Challenge's curriculum visit the Teen Challenge Curriculum Page or contact us at tcnusa@ncsi.net or call (800) 814-5729.
While most of our centers are for adults, some do offer residential programs for teenagers. Please contact the Teen Challenge Center nearest you to find out what services they offer.
How Your Gifts Can Help
Teen Challenge is funded by contributions. Those who need our help the most can least afford help. Please consider a donation to Teen Challenge. Click here to go to the Teen Challenge directory and find the Teen Challenge location you would like to support.
The Appalachian Christian Center has supported Teen Challenge for many years. We believe this is one of the best ministries a church or individual could support. The local Teen Challenge for the Appalachian Christian Center is Appalachian Teen Challenge, located in Athens, West Virginia, under the leadership of Jim Nickels.