Graduates

Upon completion of the 15-month residential program, we hold a chapel service to recognize this accomplishment. For many, this is the first thing they've finished in a long time, or perhaps ever! We take this time to affirm the change we've seen in them, and emphasize the Lord is the One Who makes it possible. Upon completion, students become eligible for graduation under the following guidelines:

• They must demonstrate a consistent Christian walk from the time they complete until graduation.
  
• They must be in relationships of accountability with their pastor or other mature Christian men referred by their pastor (relationships outside of Teen Challenge).
  
• They are to be involved in a local church.
  
• They are to check in with designated Teen Challenge staff monthly.
  
• They must have completed the program at least twelve months prior to graduation.
  

We emphasize that graduation from Teen Challenge is not a statement that someone is perfect or "has arrived" spiritually. Instead, it's an affirmation that they've continued the spiritual growth that began here, and has born fruit in their lives as evidenced by their choices, actions, relationships, etc.

A study conducted by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare documents an 86% Success rate among Teen Challenge graduates!

They attribute these amazing results to what they call, "The Jesus Factor"! That secular study, financed by public dollars, quantifies what scripture says: "So if the Son sets you free, you are free through and through". John 8:36 - The Message

Teen Challenge graduates can be found in many places... some are serving in full-time ministries, some attend college, or are working good jobs. They're serving in local churches and caring for their families. Wherever they're led, and whatever God has them doing, various studies report the following:

• 86% of Teen Challenge graduates are still free of the behaviors that brought them to Teen Challenge seven years after graduating. (Most secular rehabilitation programs experience a cure rate of only 1-15% of their graduates).
  
• 72% of Teen Challenge graduates go on to continue their education.
  
• 88% of graduates required no additional drug program treatment after leaving Teen Challenge, although 90% considered themselves addicted to drugs prior to entering the program.
  
• In a study conducted by the University of Tennessee, 60% were under court jurisdiction and subject to community supervision or had charges pending when entering Teen Challenge. At the time of these interviews, 76% were free of legal interference.
  
• 60% report improved family relationships.
  
• 92% report good to excellent health.
  
• State and Federal funding was unnecessary!