“I started using drugs when I was 15. I kept trying to quit, but every attempt led me back to jail or rehab. I eventually lost my family and everything I cared about. I felt hopeless and better off dead. But one day, when the pain was too much to bear, I cried out to God—and He led me to Teen Challenge Kentucky.

After entering the Christian drug rehab program, I experienced the Lord’s presence and a strong sense of brotherhood. My relationship with my family has been restored beyond what I imagined possible. I now have purpose and identity. Thank God for this program!”

— John

“Drugs and alcohol became my escape after losing my father to suicide at age 12. I didn’t know how to control the anger and pain. My addiction led to stealing and deep destruction in my family. I came to this Teen Challenge program broken and ready for change.

God has renewed my mind and healed family relationships. He gave me a second chance here. I give all honor and glory to God for what He’s done in my heart.”

— Michael

“I was dropped off at Teen Challenge by my brother, who said, ‘Twenty-five other programs refused you because of your criminal record. Don’t mess up this chance.’

Detox and the first days were brutal. I was homeless and depressed, with nowhere left to go. Today, I am whole again—and I thank the Teen Challenge Kentucky director who said ‘Yes’ when twenty-five others said ‘No.’”

— Rodney

“After my divorce, I turned to drinking, then marijuana and crack. My life spiraled—lying, stealing, job loss, and suicidal thoughts. Since coming to Teen Challenge, God has restored my mind. I’m now looking forward instead of living in past failures. Kentucky Men’s Rehab made me strong where I was weak, gave me life where I was dead, and health where I was sick.”

— Mike

“I was addicted to pain pills and alcohol, going nowhere fast. Jail and rehab became my life. Coming to Kentucky Teen Challenge opened my eyes to Christ. Now I have a new outlook on life. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. My future looks bright, and I am redeemed.”

— Daniel

“I grew up angry. I took my mom’s medication and spiraled into years of drinking, drugs, partying, and trouble in school. Eventually, I was arrested and kept returning to addiction even after rehab.

When I found Teen Challenge Kentucky, everything changed. Christ transformed my life when nothing else could.”

— James

“When I turned 18, I learned I was the child of my mother’s assault. My world collapsed. I drowned myself in drugs and crime until my parents kicked me out. Reluctantly, I came to Kentucky Men’s Rehab. On my first day, I broke down and asked God to save me. I’ve never been as joyful as I am now. God restored my future and my family.”

— Christopher

“I grew up in sports and church, but by my teens I was drinking and using cocaine and meth. Drugs slowly consumed my joy and left me spiritually, mentally, and physically broken.

My aunt and uncle referred me to Teen Challenge. God restored me so completely that I feel better than ever. He turned my mess into a message.”

— Jason

“My mom died when I was 13, and my world fell apart. By 16, I was a full-blown alcoholic and addict, in and out of jail. Eventually, I was court-ordered to Teen Challenge Kentucky. God restored the trust and love in my family. He turned my life around, and now I feel called to become a youth pastor.”

— Matt

“I woke up one day in a crack house with electricity shut off and people lying everywhere. I had no idea how someone with my upbringing ended up there.

After years of addiction, broken relationships, and tragedy—including finding a roommate who died by suicide—I hit bottom. My mom urged me to enter Teen Challenge.

I accepted Christ’s forgiveness and finally found spiritual and physical restoration. God is now using me to help others find the freedom He gave me.”

— Brian

“My name is Shane Vinson. I am from Metropolis, Illinois, and I am 22 years old. Growing up, I didn’t have a father figure in my life, which left me very confused. I always wondered what I had done to not have him in my life.

I started using fentanyl to cope with the empty feelings I was having, which eventually led me down a dark path. For the next four years, I was in and out of jail and was never ready to get help—until my mother told me about Teen Challenge. I decided to give it a try because, deep down, I wanted something better.

Today, I am 15 months sober and couldn’t be happier with life. Jesus made that possible. Teen Challenge saved my life, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Since being here, God has blessed me in so many ways. I took on a leadership position in the program, which has helped me become a better person.

God has restored my relationship with my family, and I am thankful beyond words. I have also chosen to stay in re-entry because I was given a job opportunity. God has moved in my life in a powerful way, and He can move in yours too.”

— Shane V.

“My name is Levy Johns. Before I came to Teen Challenge, I was lost and completely broken. I found myself bound by sin and could not see a way out.

Teen Challenge taught me that not only could I live a life of freedom from my bondage, but that God would use my testimony to help set others free. Since coming to Teen Challenge, I have experienced complete restoration.

The Lord has taken everything the enemy meant for evil and turned it for my good. I am grateful for Teen Challenge for giving me the tools I needed to change my life. I now have the confidence to live free from drugs and remain sober for the rest of my life.”

— Levy J.