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Legislative Council - Fifty-Fourth Parliament, First Session (54-1)
2018-12-05 Daily Xml
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Teen Challenge

The Hon. D.G.E. HOOD (15:28): I am pleased to rise to speak on the important work of Teen Challenge which I believe most, if not all, members would be somewhat familiar with in this place. For those who are not, it is a not-for-profit community organisation whose primary aim is to assist young people from the age of about 16 who are struggling with life controlling addictions. Established in 1958, it is known for having developed the oldest, largest and most successful rehabilitation program of its kind.

At present, Teen Challenge operates in over 250 centres worldwide in more than 125 countries and was established right here in South Australia in 1982. It has received formal accreditation for excellence in the delivery of rehabilitation services. It is also a member of the Australian Therapeutic Communities Association.

Teen Challenge operates throughout our state with a rehabilitation centre in Norton Summit, two youth drop-in centres located at Mannum and Mount Barker, and an emergency food outreach at Murray Bridge. Despite its numerous functions, it is managed by just two full-time and three part-time staff members, relying mostly on the assistance of approximately 40 volunteers. This team comprises professional and qualified counsellors and youth workers who provide mental health and rehabilitative care for people recovering from the many adverse effects of predominantly drugs and alcohol abuse.

Clients are treated by engaging proven methods, including cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and motivational therapy, facilitated in both individual and group sessions. Teen Challenge has experienced an impressive success rate of over 80 per cent through these methods, with clients deemed to have been successfully treated after remaining drug free for at least five years following completion of the program. Many similar organisations rate their success on a much shorter time frame. Indeed, many of the organisation's volunteers have been rehabilitated themselves with the support of Teen Challenge and are demonstrating good life skills and positive behaviours for the teens now seeking help from them.

Teen Challenge attributes its success to the fact that its programs are founded on and structured around faith-based principles; indeed, the Christian faith. Although Teen Challenge works in partnership with other agencies to help individuals address many of the legal, health, family and relationship concerns that can result from their addictions, evidence suggests that it is the organisation's faith-based approach that has been foundational to its longevity and the lifelong abstinence experiences by its graduates.

The organisation strongly believes that an individual's physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing all need to be considered in order to effect real and enduring change. It has nevertheless obtained recognition beyond the Christian community as being an effective rehabilitation service through its proven record of helping countless young people reach their full potential with the impressive results that I just alluded to. Teen Challenge works with people who are most at risk not only within our city and suburban areas but also within remote Aboriginal communities, where it has gained the trust and respect of locals due to its extensive involvement in their regions over a substantial period of time.

Just yesterday, in this place, we debated a bill seeking to protect our most vulnerable communities from alcohol-related harm, where I mentioned the state government recognised that a holistic approach needs to be taken to mitigate the myriad of antisocial problems that can arise from substance abuse. Organisations such as Teen Challenge certainly serve to complement government initiatives. I take this opportunity to commend it on its vast efforts and valuable contribution to this end.

Over the number of years I have been in this place, I have come to know the leadership of Teen Challenge at a personal level. Graham Ross is the CEO and has been for some substantial time. I believe he is doing outstanding work in his capacity, leading Teen Challenge, as are other people there. I strongly commend them to members of this place.

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