Europe Teen Challenge

Teen Challenge began in 1958 when David Wilkerson, a country preacher, read the story of the brutle murder of a handicapped young man in a New York City park by a street gang. Wilkerson left his Pennsylvania home and went to the city desiring to talk to the troubled teenage gang members.concern for those young men and the desire for them to know inner peace and freedom from violence led to the founding of Teen Challenge in Brooklyn, New York in 1958.

Eleven years later, Europe Teen Challenge began when Howard Foltz moved his family to The Hague, Netherlands to establish a similar work among troubled youth of Europe. Since that time,Teen Challenge has spread with programs being established in countries throughout Europe and Asia each with national leadership and workers

What is the purpose of Europe Teen Challenge?

Europe Teen Challenge is dedicated to reaching troubled people in Europe; not only drug and alcohol dependents, but gang members and anyone struggling with a life-controlling problem. The ultimate goal is to see these people become stable, mature adults and productive, contributing citizens of society.

How is this purpose accomplished?

Europe Teen Challenge uses several effective methods to achieve its goalsWe are a faith-basedorganisationworking according to the principles reflected in the Bible. Because of this, teaching and training those with life-controlling problems how to live according to Biblical principles is emphasizedTrained associates work one on one with individuals and their families inresidentialrehabilitation centers and community outreach centers located within the areas of Europe’s cities where drugs are making a significant impact.

Are the Rehabilitation Centers effective?

People with life-controlling problems and addictions frequently need a residential rehabilitation program. Thirty rehabilitation centers are operated in Europe by Teen Challenge. Many of these centers have been recognized by local and national governments as the most effective drug rehabilitation program available. Teen Challenge centers have a documented 'cure-rate' of between 60 - 85%.

Teen Challenge programs are conducted in rural or suburban residential centers and at inner-city induction centers. Long-term therapy (9 to 18 months) is provided to help residents overcome their life-controlling problems and addictions. Emphasis is placed on the spiritual, emotional, intellectual, vocational, and social aspects of each resident’s life.