The Adult & Teen Challenge National Office exists to provide a leadership role while functioning as a service and resource agency for the Adult & Teen Challenge ministries throughout the United States. In addition, the national office serves as an ombudsman and public relations liaison for the ministry.
The services provided include accreditation standards; Christ-centered, biblically-based student curriculum; staff training; promotions and media support; management and financial guidance; a student information system; and a referral service to help Adult & Teen Challenge USA ministries accomplish their mission of evangelism and discipleship to people with life-controlling problems.
Gary Blackard, President & CEO
Gary is currently the President and CEO for Adult & Teen Challenge USA, a faith-based, Christ centered addiction recovery organization. Prior to this role, Gary was Vice President, Strategy & Innovation and Chief Information Officer for Evangel University. He is also an Adjunct Professor for the graduate program in Healthcare Administration at USC, a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt leader, and executive consultant. Gary has extensive global experience as Vice President for Client Operations and Strategic Services Delivery for Xerox Corporation where he led organizations as large as 700+ people and managed annual revenues of $540M.
Gary earned his B.A. in Business Administration with emphasis in Organizational Management from Vanguard University in Southern California and his Master’s in Health Administration from the University of Southern California. He also served as the chair of the board of directors for Teen Challenge USA. He has served in a variety of ministry roles including interim youth pastor, lifegroup leader, men’s ministries director, worship team member and church board trustee.
Gary and his wife Debra have been married for over twenty-eight years and have four grown children (including spouses), and two grandchildren. They currently reside in Ozark, Missouri.
Board of Directors
Steve Trader, Chairperson
Pastor
John Rossi, Treasurer
U.S. Army Officer, Retired
Dr. Mark Maynard, Secretary
Retired Professor
Malcolm Burleigh
Assemblies of God, Executive Director of US Missions
Juan Cruz, Jr.
Senior Technology Manager – Clinical Engineering
Dr. Sue Gengler
Health Education, Retired
Jim Goins
Clinical Director of American Addiction Centers – Desert Hope
Jay Martin
Attorney
Daniel Ruiz
Institute for Learning and Innovation
Russ Tappero, Regional Rep
Teen Challenge, Northwest region
Snow Peabody, Regional Rep
Teen Challenge, Southwest region
Eric Vagle, Regional Rep
Teen Challenge, North Central region
George Thomas, Regional Rep
Teen Challenge, South Central region
Dave Rose, Regional Rep
Teen Challenge, Great Lakes region
Gary Bentley, Regional Rep
Teen Challenge, Gulf region
Beth Greco, Regional Rep
Teen Challenge, Northeast region
Brice Maddock, Regional Rep
Teen Challenge, Southeast region
National Office Staff
Patty Baker
Director of Annual Giving
My primary focus is executing a year-round fundraising plan communicating the life- changing impact of our compassionate donors across the country.
Lisa Bornert
Executive Administrative Assistant / Office Manager
I manage the day-to-day office operations and assist the president. Staff often contact me with questions about the various grant processes.
Wendy Buttacy
Chief Learning Officer
I oversee the development of curriculum and leadership/training opportunities for Adult & Teen Challenge staff and students.
Brad Lombardi
Reception
Answering emails and the phone to help people find an Adult & Teen Challenge for recovery for their loved ones are my primary duties.
Kathy Lombardi
Reception
I am responsible for assisting those who phone or email find help for their family members who are struggling with addiction.
Jonathan May
Communications Specialist
I am responsible for managing our websites, social media accounts, branding, and email lists. I also produce film and other digital content for our websites and training courses.
Christa Teachout
Events & Online Learning Specialist
I am glad to assist you with questions related to conference registration and online training. Additionally, I assist with online course development.
Jaimie Trussell
Chief Development Officer / Vice President of Marketing & Communications
Allen Turley
Leadership Development Director
I provide and develop training opportunities for our Adult & Teen Challenge staff and leadership. Additionally, I manage our conferences and conduct live training, intensives, and webinars.
Vanessa Turley
Accounting Specialist
I process curriculum/merchandise orders, deposits, and certifications. Staff often contact me with questions about accounts and the various certification processes.
Contact Us
Adult & Teen Challenge USA
5250 N Towne Center Dr
Ozark, Missouri 65721
(417) 581-2181
info@teenchallengeusa.org