I attended Teen Challenge a few years ago.

For those not familiar, Teen Challenge is a Christian Bible based
organization for adults that attempts to provide a program of recovery
from drugs and alcohol. It was founded in an amazing way in 1959 on
the streets of New York and has evolved into a world-wide
organization.

Yet, my experience with them was less than favourable. The results I
observed were less than favourable. I am now over 16 months sober.
My program of receovery basically involves most of what Teen Challenge
said would not work (namely the 12 step approach). More
importantly... I am recovering... in every sense of the word...
emotionally, relationally, financially, socially.

Teen Challenge boasts a success rate of 96%. As an insider... I can
confirm by my own experience and observation that this is far, far,
far, FAR, from the truth. My experience with the organization was
that they did so much posturing and promoting that they hide their
lack of effectiveness with lies and cover-ups. They told us that
their way was the only way. They mocked and belittled 12-step
programs.

Why am I posting this?... well... probably for 2 reasons....

1. I want to come to grips with this disappointing experience by
prompting discussion with any others who have experienced teen
challenge.

2. I want to warn would-be attendees of teen challenge of what I
observed and hopefully spare them the same disaster I experienced.

Thoughts?

Thanks.

Chaz