Deborah's House

Adult & Teen Challenge is a program for those facing life-controlling issues—not just substance abuse, but any problem that hinders independent, self-sustaining living. This includes trouble with employment, daily living skills, criminal activity, or moral and sexual challenges, etc.

Absolutely! God has promised that when we invite Him into our lives, He will give us a brand-new life, a life that is full of joy and purpose.  (John 10:10) Thousands of people who have gone through Adult & Teen Challenge have completely changed their lives through Jesus Christ.  He has promised this to you too! There is no one who is “too bad” for God or a “hopeless case” to God. Jeremiah 29: 11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Although we feel we offer an excellent discipleship program, because of the great need for available beds, the Adult & Teen Challenge program must be reserved only for those who recognize they have a life controlling problem. We recommend programs such as Master’s Commission or Youth with a Mission for those looking for a good Christian discipleship program.

Adult & Teen Challenge is provided to participants at no cost; however, the care for each student amounts to approximately $1,000 per month. Friends and family are encouraged to contribute support when feasible. Upon entering the program, each student will apply for SNAP (food stamps), and if approved, these benefits are allocated to help offset food expenses during enrollment. Any costs that exceed the services offered by ATCMA and require payment remain the responsibility of the student and/or their family and must be settled before program completion. We sincerely appreciate all donations and contributions that enable us to address the needs of every individual we serve.

Step 1: Complete and submit the online application, or download it, fill it out, and send it by fax or mail.

Step 2: Our Intake Coordinator will reach out to you for a phone interview, typically within 24 to 72 hours.

Step 3: If you are accepted, we will set up an intake date and time.

ATCMA is a 12-month program designed to provide a comprehensive and structured environment for participants to focus on their recovery. The length allows for the formation of new thought patterns and habits, which can take time to develop. No perspective student should apply for the program unless he/she is committed to remaining in the program until successful completion.

Adult & Teen Challenge uses a structured curriculum, much like a traditional school, which every student must finish within a specified timeframe. As a result, all participants are expected to complete the full program, no matter what type of life-controlling challenges they face.

There are several ways this could happen based on the court system and the nature of your case. Generally, after you are sure you want to go to Adult & Teen Challenge, you should contact your lawyer or public defender and inform him of your desire. Share your applications, brochures, and the Adult & Teen Challenge web site with your attorney so that he can be informed that Adult & Teen Challenge is a reasonable alternative to jail or prison. He will need this information to convince the court. If you, in fact, committed the crime you have been charged with, discuss with your attorney the possibility of pleading guilty with the agreement that the court would consider sending you to Adult & Teen Challenge. The plea agreement must include a statement saying that you agree to successfully complete the entire program. You will not be accepted if your plea agreement states you will be here for a certain amount of time. If your plea agreement does not include a statement requiring successful completion, you will not be accepted. It is at the sentencing hearing that Adult & Teen Challenge is considered by the court.  Send or bring a copy of the agreement to Adult & Teen Challenge. If you are not guilty of the crime you are charged with and plead not guilty, all your court hearings must be completed, and a verdict must be made before you can enter the program. If you are already sentenced to jail or prison, usually there is nothing that can be done to get into Adult & Teen Challenge until you have completed your sentence or are approved for parole. Since there are many questions regarding Adult & Teen Challenge and the courts, it is best to call Adult & Teen Challenge to discuss your individual case.

A list of these programs is available at the National Adult & Teen Challenge web site (https://teenchallengeusa.org) or by calling the National office at (417) 581-2181.

Many of these special situations can be accommodated. You will need to contact the individual center regarding their abilities to do so.

No. We understand that many people come from all types of backgrounds and beliefs. We only ask, if you decide to come to Adult & Teen Challenge, that you are open to God and what He wants to do in your life. Give Him a chance to show you that He is real and that He loves you no matter what you have done.

In most cases, you will be welcome if you seek proper treatment and you can fully participate in all aspects of the program without a great deal of medical treatment.

All are welcome. Our mission is not to convert anyone to a denomination. Our purpose is to help people find the freedom and deliverance from life controlling problems through the power of Jesus Christ.

We believe in the life changing power of a relationship with Jesus Christ. Although many other methods of assisting people who have problems are valid, we find that they cannot compare to the effectiveness of a relationship with God. Therefore, we do not use 12 step programs, medications, psychological methods, etc. Instead we use Bible instruction, prayer, worship and a practical Christian lifestyle.

An Exit Counselor will guide you through your transition, helping you prepare for life after completing the program. Our Bridging Hope re-entry program is available to support your reintegration into society. If you are interested in joining the Adult & Teen Challenge ministry, you may apply to become an intern.

To help support our students until they are ready, leaving the property is not allowed while enrolled. Students can participate in off-property family visits and receive a pass to go home. While Adult & Teen Challenge does not physically prevent anyone from leaving and has no locked gates or fences, you will only be permitted to leave the property if you are officially discharged from the program.

ATCMA is a nicotine free campus. Nicotine is highly addictive and can trigger other addictive behaviors. Many students find that our tobacco-free environment helps with withdrawal. More importantly, God Himself will give you the strength to overcome the cravings of nicotine.

Most applicants try to avoid using drugs, alcohol, and tobacco while waiting to be accepted. Once in the drug-free setting of Adult & Teen Challenge, they generally succeed. If you think withdrawal will be difficult without medical help, we recommend visiting a detox center before coming to Adult & Teen Challenge. For more information about detox facilities, contact the center you wish to apply to.

ATCMA seeks successful, committed Christians who feel called by God to help those with life-controlling problems. Employment opportunities are available for men and women who have completed the program. For other ministry roles, contact National Adult & Teen Challenge for opportunities and requirements.