Teen Challenge is a faith-based, non-profit organization. Established to evangelize teens as well as adults who have life-controlling problems and to initiate the discipleship process in a residential setting to the point where the individual can function as a Christian in society applying spiritually motivated biblical principles to relationships in the family, local church, chosen vocation and the community.
Since it was started with humble beginnings in 1958, by Rev. David Wilkerson, Teen Challenge has become an international ministry with hundreds of centers around the globe. Being a Christian discipleship program it endeavors to minister to the whole person, helping them to become mentally sound, emotionally balanced, socially adjusted, physically well, and spiritually alive through a relationship with Jesus Christ. Not only is the emptiness of life finally filled, but every aspect of one's life comes into a new perspective.
Teen Challenge assists men, women, teenagers, children and families struggling with life-controlling problems. They include drug abuse, alcoholism, behavioral reactions to sexual and physical abuse, and other difficulties. The salvation offered by Jesus Christ is the main avenue to create true, lasting change in a person's life. Teaching students about Christ and leading them to salvation is essential to the work of Teen Challenge.
The beginning of the discipleship process involves 3-4 months of Bible study, character development, and junior high or high school education for the adolescent programs. Training involves 8-12 months of Christian growth and development, and academic and vocational improvement. Teen Challenge provides reintegration into society, employment and Christian Fellowship.
Program Specifics
Our programs have been developed to encourage the student to cope with everyday life issues. Students typically rise early and have little free time, due to a busy schedule of:
Devotions
Discipleship Training
Work Projects
Meal Times
Chapel Services
Bible Reading
Recreational Activities
Lives are transformed at Teen Challenge by the power of God that is stronger than the bonds of addiction. Teen Challenge helps the total person with spiritual, emotional, physical, social and educational challenges to prepare them for their new life.
Spiritually: Teen Challenge knows that the student's symptoms are indicative of deeper problems and conflicts; we understand that a new life in Christ will give them the power and ability to overcome these problems and live a more productive life.
Emotionally: The healing of past abuses is necessary. Bible studies enhance mental growth and serve as a foundation for creating new lives.
Physically: We care for the physical needs of the students. These needs--a drug-free environment, food, recreation, etc--are key factors to the student's success in the program.
Socially: Students learn to work through relationship problems with their peers and with their families at home. They will learn to apply the character qualities they learn in the classroom to their everyday lives.
Educationally: Teen Challenge has developed a curriculum specifically designed to teach students about God and help them develop the skills required for them to become successful Christians. Adolescent centers provide secondary education, while some adult centers offer GED programs
Our center is located at 1464 Valencia St. in San Francisco.There we house up to 30 men, ages 18 and up, in a 12-18 month residential care setting.
If you need help or know someone who needs help, please give us a call at: (415)285-HELP or email us at mail@sfteenchallenge.com
