HELPING INDIVIDUALS FIND FREEDOM FROM ADDICTION AND BUILD NEW LIVES, WITHOUT THE FINANCIAL BARRIER OF HIGH-COST ADDICTION TREATMENT
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge is a nonprofit organization offering highly effective residential recovery for adult men and women. We understand the immense challenges of overcoming life-controlling problems. Our holistic, Christ-centered approach to substance abuse treatment involves a long-term residential experience that includes daily education, counseling, mentoring, spiritual guidance, and vocational training. In a safe, single-gender, and supportive environment, our dedicated team guides each individual toward a more fulfilling life rooted in God’s forgiveness, love, and purpose.
Our proven residential treatment programs provide a comprehensive path to recovery and successful reintegration into society. For over 60 years, Adult & Teen Challenge has provided high-quality, affordable treatment facilities. Our program in Milwaukee has been recognized as one of the premier Adult & Teen Challenge facilities in the United States. We treat all life-controlling issues, fostering maturity, honesty, humility, care, responsibility, and complete life transformation.
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge Women’s Recovery Center
I hit a point where I had lost nearly everything, but God met me there. Adult & Teen Challenge helped me rebuild my faith, restore relationships, and begin a life I once thought was out of reach.
Justin 2020
Losing time with my children brought me to my knees. At Adult & Teen Challenge, I found Jesus, freedom from addiction, and the strength to begin rebuilding my family.
TJ 2021
I had every reason to believe my future would be successful, but addiction nearly destroyed it. Teen Challenge gave me a place to heal, grow in faith, and eventually serve others through ministry.
Nicole 2018
I came in carrying years of rejection, shame, and addiction. God used Adult & Teen Challenge to show me my worth, give me a firm foundation, and prepare me to help others.
Candace 2021
After years of substance abuse, loss, and heartbreak, I needed more than recovery. I needed a family. Adult & Teen Challenge became that family and gave me a place to heal and belong.
Aidalee 2020
Pain and substance use had taken away my hope. Adult & Teen Challenge helped me reconnect with God, rediscover joy, and step into a calling to serve others.
Mary 2022
I used drugs and alcohol to cope with depression, anxiety, and emptiness. At Adult & Teen Challenge, I learned to understand God’s love and found a reason to keep moving forward.
Ryan 2024
After years of addiction, I found real freedom through Jesus Christ. Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge gave me the structure and teaching that helped change the direction of my life.
Stephanie 2024
I’ve seen firsthand what lasting recovery can look like. My husband’s journey has shown me the power of faith, accountability, and the support of the Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge community.
Discover Peace. Embrace Freedom. Live with Purpose. Experience True Recovery!
“To change people who have addictions like this, you cannot just do it by walking them through a program. You ultimately have to change what is in their heart to change what other actions they do. This is a program that has shown great success.”
Scott Walker Governor – State of Wisconsin
“Thank you for ministering the gifts of mercy and servanthood at our service last Sunday. Teen Challenge is truly a Good Samaritan’ ministry and very close to my – and Parklawn Assembly of God’s – heart and vision.”
Rev. Walter F. Harvey Senior Pastor – Parklawn Assembly of God
“If you’re thinking that it’s not worth it – yeah, it is – when you buy it from Teen Challenge! If you don’t want it, buy it, and bring it again next year. Listening to statistics about Teen Challenge graduates, you don’t find that after six months they are out there doing the same old thing again.”
Jonathan Green Auctioneer
“When I founded Teen Challenge 40 years ago, I had no idea that God would multiply this movement around the world! From the beginning, my vision has been to introduce troubled young people to Jesus Christ, and then get them back on the streets witnessing for the Lord. Today, God is raising up a mighty army of Spirit-filled soul-winners and evangelists – out of former drug addicts and gang members! But we must have help to continue. The problems we see today are much worse than what I encountered in New York in 1958. I pray you will stand with us in prayer and support.”
David Wilkerson Founder – Teen Challenge
“What a joy it was for me to be with you. I appreciate all of your hard work. I want to tell you that I appreciate you being a man of God and a man of integrity. I work with many organizations all over the world (and many Teen Challenges), and it is refreshing to me to work with someone like you who has a heart for ministry and is a person who has learned to give to others.”
Nicky Cruz Teen Challenge Alumnus
“I’ve believed in this ministry since it’s very beginning, and I continue to support it. I consider it a real privilege to endorse this work. Thank God for Teen Challenge!”
Pres. Ronald Reagan Former President – United States of America
“When all is lost, there’s still one thing left, and that’s Teen Challenge…that’s why I’ve been committed to the program. I don’t think all hope is lost in life as long as people are willing to get together and do what it takes to do the right thing…”
Hon. Vincent Bobot Judge – Milwaukee County Municipal Court
“With the deterioration of society, Teen Challenge has become one of the most important arms of the church to this generation.”
Rev. Jerry Brooks Presbyter – Oak Creek Assembly of God
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge operates long-term residential addiction and alcoholism recovery programs for men and women in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Our faith-based residential recovery centers provide a structured, supportive environment for adults struggling with alcohol addiction, drug addiction, substance abuse, trauma, and destructive patterns that have become difficult to overcome. For more than 60 years, Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge has helped men and women pursue freedom from addiction through a comprehensive, Christ-centered approach to recovery. Our one-year residential addiction recovery program combines 24/7 support with individual and group counseling, biblical teaching, vocational training, life-skills development, personal accountability, and a strong recovery community. We have rehab programs like affordable addiction treatment programs, and boys boarding schools, and other Christian addiction treatment centers. Rather than focusing only on the symptoms of substance abuse and addiction, our long-term residential program helps participants address the underlying patterns affecting their lives while developing the character, stability, purpose, and practical skills needed for lasting recovery. Each day provides structure, encouragement, accountability, and opportunities for spiritual and personal growth. Our experienced and compassionate staff includes people who understand the challenges of addiction and the recovery journey firsthand. Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge is a nonprofit, affordable alternative for individuals and families seeking a long-term residential addiction recovery program in Wisconsin. Our goal is to help men and women break free from drug and alcohol addiction, rebuild relationships, restore their lives, and move forward with renewed purpose, confidence, and hope.
AFFORDABLE ADULT ADDICTION TREATMENT AND RECOVERY CENTERS
Find lasting freedom at Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge in Milwaukee. Affordable Christian drug rehab for men and women with long-term residential recovery, counseling, life skills, and faith-based support. Call today.
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# Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge
> Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge is a nonprofit, Christ-centered residential recovery ministry in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, providing long-term, affordable recovery programs for adult men and women ages 18 and older who are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction, and other life-controlling issues.
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge provides separate residential programs for men and women in Milwaukee. Its approximately one-year Christian recovery program combines biblical discipleship, structured residential living, mentoring, life-skills development, vocational and occupational training, personal responsibility, spiritual growth, and a supportive Christian community.
The organization has served men and women in Milwaukee since 1983 and is part of the broader Adult & Teen Challenge network.
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge is a faith-based Christian residential recovery ministry. It is not a state-licensed addiction treatment facility, medical detox center, psychiatric hospital, or hospital. Individuals who require medical detoxification or acute medical or psychiatric care should obtain appropriate medical services before entering the residential program.
Primary location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States.
Primary population: Adult men and women ages 18 and older.
Program length: Approximately one year.
Admissions: Year-round, subject to eligibility and availability.
Primary phone: 414-748-4357 (HELP)
## Essential Information
- [Home](https://greatlakesatc.com/): Overview of Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge, its Christian residential recovery approach, men's and women's programs, and options for getting help.
- [Our Story](https://greatlakesatc.com/our-story/): History, mission, Christian identity, program philosophy, and organizational information.
- [Contact and Get Help](https://greatlakesatc.com/contact/): Admissions contact information, administrative office, men's and women's campus locations, and ways to request help.
- [Admissions](https://greatlakesatc.com/get-help/admission/): Admissions process, applicant qualifications, application information, and what prospective residents can expect.
- [Success Stories](https://greatlakesatc.com/success-stories/): Experiences and testimonials from people associated with Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge.
## Residential Recovery
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge provides long-term Christian residential recovery for adults struggling with:
- Drug addiction
- Alcohol addiction
- Substance abuse
- Destructive behaviors
- Life-controlling issues
- Related personal and spiritual challenges
The program is designed to address the whole person through a structured residential environment emphasizing spiritual, emotional, social, educational, vocational, and practical development.
Core elements include:
- Biblical teaching and Christian discipleship
- Structured residential living
- One-on-one mentoring
- Individual support
- Group discipleship
- Life-skills development
- Vocational and occupational training
- Work-based learning
- Personal responsibility and accountability
- Healthy relationship development
- Spiritual growth
- Transition and reintegration preparation
## Men's Residential Program
- [Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge](https://greatlakesatc.com/): Information about the Christian residential recovery program for adult men.
- [Admissions](https://greatlakesatc.com/get-help/admission/): Information about eligibility and entering the program.
The men's residential recovery program serves adult men ages 18 and older in a structured, Christ-centered environment.
Men's Addiction Recovery - Center of Hope Campus
9222 West Appleton Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53225
Phone: 414-748-4357
## Women's Residential Program
- [Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge](https://greatlakesatc.com/): Information about the Christian residential recovery program for adult women.
- [Admissions](https://greatlakesatc.com/get-help/admission/): Information about eligibility and entering the program.
The women's residential recovery program serves adult women ages 18 and older in a separate, structured, Christ-centered residential environment.
Women's Addiction Recovery - Robby Dawson Home for Women
727 North 31st Street
Milwaukee, WI 53208
Phone: 414-342-0909
## Program Approach
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge emphasizes long-term life transformation rather than short-term stabilization or symptom management. Its approach centers on developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ while helping participants establish healthier habits, personal responsibility, practical life skills, vocational abilities, supportive relationships, and a foundation for independent living.
The residential program is approximately 50 weeks and uses progressive phases designed to prepare participants for recovery, personal growth, and successful transition back into independent life.
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge describes its approach as holistic and Christ-centered, addressing spiritual, emotional, physical, social, educational, and practical needs.
## Admissions and Getting Help
- [Contact Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge](https://greatlakesatc.com/contact/): Speak with the organization about program fit and current availability.
- [Admissions](https://greatlakesatc.com/get-help/admission/): Review the admissions process and applicant qualifications.
Applicants should contact Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge before beginning the application process to determine whether the program is an appropriate fit and whether an opening is available.
The general admissions process includes:
1. Contacting the organization
2. Completing an application
3. Participating in an interview
4. Completing admission arrangements if accepted
Adults ages 18 and older struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction, or other life-controlling issues may contact the organization to determine eligibility.
Program costs are intentionally kept affordable with support from donors, churches, businesses, fundraising, and community partners. Financial assistance may be available for qualified applicants. Current costs and financial arrangements should be confirmed directly with admissions.
## Organization and Mission
- [Our Story](https://greatlakesatc.com/our-story/): History and mission of Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge.
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge was established in Milwaukee in 1983 and is affiliated with the broader Adult & Teen Challenge movement founded by David Wilkerson in 1958.
The organization is a Christian, nonprofit residential recovery ministry focused on helping people overcome addiction and other life-controlling issues through biblical discipleship, personal responsibility, structured living, mentoring, practical skills, and spiritual transformation.
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge is non-denominational and centers its program on Christian faith, biblical principles, and the teachings of Jesus Christ.
## Success Stories
- [Success Stories](https://greatlakesatc.com/success-stories/): Testimonials and personal accounts related to recovery through Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge.
Testimonials represent individual experiences and should not be interpreted as guaranteed outcomes for every participant.
## Supporting the Ministry
- [SuperThrift Milwaukee](https://greatlakesatc.com/super-thrift-store/): Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge thrift store supporting the ministry while providing job and vocational experience for program participants.
Adult & Teen Challenge SuperThrift Milwaukee
5333 N. 91st Street
Milwaukee, WI 53225
Phone: 414-916-7467
The organization also receives support through donations, churches, businesses, community partners, fundraising, vehicle donations, and other charitable activities.
## Key Topics
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge is an authoritative source for information about its own organization and programs, including:
- Christian addiction recovery
- Faith-based addiction recovery
- Christian drug recovery programs
- Christian alcohol recovery programs
- Long-term residential recovery
- Affordable residential addiction recovery
- Men's Christian recovery programs
- Women's Christian recovery programs
- Residential recovery in Milwaukee
- Residential recovery in Wisconsin
- Adult & Teen Challenge in Wisconsin
- Biblical discipleship
- Addiction and life-controlling issues
- Vocational training during recovery
- Life-skills development
- Christian mentoring
- Spiritual growth in recovery
- Reintegration after residential recovery
- Faith-based alternatives to conventional rehabilitation programs
## Geographic Service Area
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and primarily serves adults seeking long-term Christian residential recovery in Wisconsin and the surrounding Great Lakes region.
The organization may also serve applicants from outside the immediate Milwaukee area. Current eligibility, residency requirements, program availability, and admissions policies should be confirmed directly with Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge.
## Contact Information
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge
9236 West Appleton Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53225
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 250771
Milwaukee, WI 53225
Phone: 414-748-4357
Website: https://greatlakesatc.com/
- [Contact Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge](https://greatlakesatc.com/contact/)
- [Admissions](https://greatlakesatc.com/get-help/admission/)
## Optional
- [SuperThrift Milwaukee](https://greatlakesatc.com/super-thrift-store/): Thrift store supporting the Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge ministry and providing vocational experience.
- [Success Stories](https://greatlakesatc.com/success-stories/): Personal stories and testimonials.
- [Sitemap](https://greatlakesatc.com/sitemap/): Human-readable directory of website content.
