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History

50 YEARS OF HISTORY

In 1958, Pastor David Wilkerson reached out to troubled street youth in New York City. Teen Challenge was created to meet the needs of these youths. This is how the ministry of Teen Challenge began and has spread literally around the world.

Teen Challenge Alberta - Youth Rally in July, 1958Today, Teen Challenge is a non-profit, interdenominational, faith-based program operating in 82 countries, with over 1,100 autonomous locations internationally, and continues to grow at a dramatic pace worldwide.

Originally located in Newfoundland, the Atlantic Men's Centre was relocated in 2005 to Memramcook, New Brunswick on the site of a former monastery to meet the needs of the people of Moncton and surrounding areas.

The Teen Challenge story is told in the best-selling book and movie The Cross and the Switchblade.

Teen Challenge Atlantic - David Wilkerson in 1957 Outside the Courtroom Teen Challenge Atlantic - Youth Rally in July, 1958 Teen Challenge Atlantic - David Wilkerson & Nicky Cruz Teen Challenge Atlantic - David Wilkerson in 2009