History

Teen Challenge began in 1958, when a young preacher, named David Wilkerson, was moved with compassion to reach out to young people on the streets of New York.  His story is retold in the bestselling book, The Cross and the Switchblade, which has sold over 15 million copies worldwide.  Since then, Teen Challenge has spread to approximately 1000 centres in over 80 countries around the world.

Teen Challenge Victoria has been providing help for people caught up in drug and alcohol abuse, and other life-controlling problems for over 30 years.  We are an inter-denominational ministry and registered charity that is governed by a Board of directors, including the Executive Director.  As an established Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Service, Teen Challenge Victoria is registered with the Hospitals and Charities Board and the Health Commission of Victoria.

As a young man, Neil encountered  difficulties in life, with some of these becoming negative experiences that lead to a life of drug and alcohol abuse.  Neil had a life-changing experience of faith when he was 19 years old, and entered Bible College where he obtained a Diploma of Ministry.

After raising a family of 3 children and having successfully run his own business, Neil travelled to the U.S.A. in 2002 to study Addiction Treatment full-time.  His entrepreneurial background, combined with a commitment to people, work in a unique combination for the ongoing development of Teen Challenge Victoria.

David began as a student at Teen Challenge in October 2007.  He has since completed the recovery phase and a further 12 month internship (SLT). David has completed counselling studies, Advanced Diploma of Family Therapy, Graduate Diploma in Counselling and continuing with a Master of Arts in Ministry. David has a beautiful wife and four children.

In July 2007, Paul joined the staff of the Live Free Program.  His own background in battling life-controlling issues motivates Paul to help others overcome their own struggles.  Paul left his profession as a qualified mechanic to study Addiction Treatment in the U.S.A., and then obtained his Certificate IV in Counselling, Paul is continuing his studies for a Advanced Diploma of Family Therapy. Paul serves daily as the the Pallet Industry/Hospitality Supervisor.

Tony Greely
Student Mentor/Facilites Amenties
Tony began at Teen Challenge in early 2007. He has since completed the recovery phase and went out and worked, met his wife and has now returned to serve as a mentor and supervisor of the facility amenities.Tony has a real passion to be part of the answer, after his life changing experience here at Teen Challenge.We are very pleased to have him on the team letting his life benefit others.

After serving in the Australian Army for 17 years, including on the field in Vietnam, Ross has been a successful small business operator.  He is also a qualified builder, and his experience expands the professional development of our facilities at Kyabram, as well as the ongoing maintenance of our property.

To provide youth, adults and families with an effective and comprehensive solution to life-controlling problems, including drug and alcohol dependency, in order to become productive members of society. By applying sound principles, Teen Challenge endeavours to help people become mentally sound, emotionally balanced, socially adjusted, physically well, and spiritually alive.

Harry Gillis, Chairman

Senior Trainer for The Factory; Member of Shepparton AOG

Neil Meyer, Chief Executive Officer

After serving as the Program Director of Teen Challenge for 2 years, Neil is now the Chief Executive Officer of Teen Challenge international Victoria.

Phillip Stenhouse

CEO Bridge Builders Youth Training Organisation; Member of Careforce Church

Peter Reid

Self-employed business manager; Board Member of Tatura AOG

Ben Geerling Snr

Woodwork Teacher; Board Member of Tatura AOG