Russell

Russell was 16 years old when he entered Teen Challenge Ranch of NW Arkansas. He had a serious temper, 2 felony charges, and was the third generation in his family to have serious drug problems.

Russell came to Teen Challenge resistant and full of anger. His first weeks at Teen Challenge were very difficult, and he was frequently in trouble. As Russell explained it, he "grew a lot through failure." But throughout even his worst days in the program, Russell was constantly being presented with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. Eventually, Russell committed his life to the Lord, and slowly but surely the incredible transformation began. The angry young man transformed into a kind and gentle man of God.

After graduating Teen Challenge, Russell became very active in missions. He attended a missions training program and has helped to spread the gospel in Honduras, Mexico, and India. He is also a graduate of the Mt. Zion School of Ministry and is now serving as a staff member at the very Teen Challenge where he first received Christ. He and his wife Bethany have two boys, Joseph and Jackson.