Bring hope to your community.
Starting an Adult & Teen Challenge center begins with prayer, careful planning, and partnership with the existing ATC network. We’ll help you understand the process and what’s required before moving forward.
New Center Policy
New centers grow through existing ATC organizations.
New Adult & Teen Challenge ministry concepts must be adopted and governed by an existing ATC corporation. This structure supports healthy growth, protects the integrity of the ATC name, and helps reduce risk in a new market.
Experienced governance
You'll partner with a proven ATC organization with experience and accountability.
Shared
standards
Maintains the integrity and quality of the ATC name and mission.
Local
accountability
Provides ongoing support and oversight in your region.
Pathway toward accreditation
Positions the new center for future accreditation with ATC USA.
What to consider
Key factors to evaluate.
Before moving forward, it's important to prayerfully and carefully consider several key factors. These help determine whether there is a real opportunity for a new center and if the community can sustain the ministry for the long term.
Community need
Is there a real need for a Christ-centered recovery ministry in the proposed market? Consider the size of the population, level of need, and existing services in the area.
Funding capacity
Can the community sustain the operational needs of the ministry? Consider potential donor support, local partnerships, and the long-term financial viability.
Recovery landscape
What addiction trends and existing recovery services are already present in the area? Evaluate how a new center would complement and fill gaps in the current landscape.
Leadership readiness
Are the proposed leaders and ministry plan prepared for the responsibility involved? Strong, godly leadership and a clear ministry vision are essential for long-term success.
How it works
From interest to affiliation.
Adult & Teen Challenge is a Christ-centered discipleship ministry, not a medical or clinical treatment program. If you’re exploring starting a center, we also encourage you to connect with an existing ATC ministry and experience the model firsthand.
Step 1
Start the conversation
Submit the Start a Center inquiry after reviewing the process and requirements.
Step 2
Connect with your region
Adult & Teen Challenge USA will connect you with the appropriate regional representative to discuss the proposed ministry and community.
Step 3
Identify a sponsoring organization
If the opportunity appears viable, the regional representative works with an existing ATC corporation that could potentially adopt the new ministry.
Step 4
Review and approval
The sponsoring organization evaluates leadership, conducts the required screening, and reviews the proposed ministry and business plan.
Step 3
Affiliate and begin accreditation
Once approved, affiliation paperwork is completed with the National Office and the new center begins working toward accreditation.
Ministry models
Different ways to serve the community.
Adult & Teen Challenge centers take different forms to meet the unique needs of their communities. Each model uses proven, Christ-centered curriculum and support from the ATC network.
Residential programs
Adult & Teen Challenge offers both short-term and long-term residential care as part of its Christ-centered discipleship model. Residential programs provide a structured environment where individuals can receive holistic care, discover freedom, and grow in their faith.
Non-residential programs
Non-residential ministries meet weekly in the community and use a fully developed curriculum to serve people who may not need a residential program. These programs provide discipleship, support, and practical tools for lasting change in a local church or community setting.
Adolescent programs
Adolescent programs combine Christ-centered discipleship with an accredited Christian school. Depending on the state, additional licensing and teacher credentialing may also be required, along with the operational funding needed to sustain the program.
Start the conversation
Could Adult & Teen Challenge serve your community?
If you believe there may be a need for a new Adult & Teen Challenge ministry in your area, tell us about the opportunity. Our team can help you understand the requirements and determine the appropriate next steps.
Start a Center Inquiry
