How it Works

How it Works

Youth Challenge of Hampton Roads operates a four-phase Christian discipleship/rehab program. Persons considering the program must be willing to commit themselves to approximately twelve to eighteen months of training which is non-negotiable. We have found that our current four-phase program and the length of time required have been the most effective in meeting each student's needs.

*One more note before you read further. This is one of the most successful programs of its type in the country. The program will not change you, it is you, the person with the problem, who must change. We will love you with the love of God through it all.

The Program consists of four (4) Phases:

Phase 1 - Outreach

Phase 2 - Induction

Phase 3 - Christian Growth

Phase 4 - Internship/Re-entry

* In addition to the four phase process Youth Challenge also provides graduates with additional support groups and a restoration program if the graduate needs further treatment.

PHASE 1 – OUTREACH: An interview at the Youth Challenge offices or the applicant’s place of incarceration.

PHASE 2 - INDUCTION: A minimum of four months as a resident at the Youth Challenge Hope Center induction center. There is random screening and testing for drugs and nicotine, counseling (individual and group), Christian education, chapel services, work therapy, and recreation. This is in preparation for the third phase.

PHASE 3 - CHRISTIAN GROWTH: The men's receive their advanced discipleship training at the Teen Challenge Training Center Often referred to as "The Farm",or, "God's Mountain", it is a live-in facility located on a 500 acre farm in the mountains of Pennsylvania. This phase is a minimum of eight (8) months. The Training Center provides a structured atmosphere where counseling and understanding of individual problems are combined with firm discipline. In addition, students will also be involved in Bible studies, chapel services, high school GED preparation with a certified teacher, work therapy, beginning vocational training, and recreation. This is in preparation for phase four .

Ministry is another vital part of their training experience at the Training Center. It may be jail ministry, street ministry, choir, praise team, drama or work ministry. All must do some form of ministry.

The Ladies receive similar training during their twelve to fifteen months at the Women's Home.

PHASE 4 - INTERNSHIP/RE-ENTRY: This consists of three to six months in a live-in facility back at an induction re-entry center. The purpose of this is to reestablish the person back into society by teaching them to cope successfully with everyday stresses and problems. Each individual is assisted in job placement, budgeting money, establishing personal goals, paying room and board, finding new friends, establishing church fellowship and challenging them to discipline themselves as well as others.