Teen Challenge is an international, faith-based, recovery program for teens and adults who struggle with addiction. Adolescent programs are available specifically for minors. The residential program is 12-18 months. Students overcome addiction while living in a community of believers by learning essential life skills paired with a spiritual bootcamp component.
Men and women follow a structured schedule in homes that are separated by gender. They have daily chores, mealtimes, Bible reading, vocational training, and classes in general studies for new Christians. Church attendance and Chapel services are included weekly as well. They will have free time throughout the week too. Students will also be assigned a mentor and receive counseling. Pastor Will Kitchen, the Executive Director of the Fort Myers program referred to the inner work as the hardest part.
It is celebrated and considered a huge victory when anyone completes Teen Challenge. All of the staff, interns and students attend the services for graduations. On September 24, Fort Myers, Florida Teen Challenge honored four men who were graduating the program. Many family members were also present, including other students’ families for the coinciding, monthly “family day” when families of students can come to the campus and visit their loved ones.
The ceremony opened with worship, and then some awards were given to students for significant achievements. Next the men graduating were highlighted in a slideshow that showcased their memories from the program. Many tears of joy followed as they each heard words of encouragement from staff, shared their hearts in personal testimonies and received their awards of completion. In closing everyone prayed for the graduates.
If you have questions, want learn more about the ministry or find a center near you visit Global Teen Challenge or Teen Challenge USA. There is also a Facebook page for many of the centers, including the Teen Challenge Southeast Region-Fort Myers, FL.
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