Adult & Teen Challenge is expanding its reach in the Pembina Valley, offering new programs to support individuals and families impacted by addiction. Representatives Pat Heinrichs and Steve Chaboyer share details about their latest initiatives, including the launch of the Ready Now Recovery women’s group in Winkler, expanded community-based services, and resources designed to meet people where they are on their recovery journey.
Comprehensive recovery services happening right here
Chaboyer explains that Adult & Teen Challenge is no longer just a 12-month, faith-based recovery program. “Over the last few years, we’ve opened community offices in Winkler, Steinbach, Brandon, and other regions,” he says.
These offices provide one-on-one mentoring, outpatient programming, men’s groups, and monthly Freedom Services. “We meet people where they’re at. Not everyone is ready for the long-term program, so we assess what’s best for each person to get the help they need,” Chaboyer emphasizes.
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Ready Now Recovery women’s group launches next week
Starting Wednesday, January 22, at 7:00 PM, the Ready Now Recovery women’s group will meet at the back of the Super Thrift in Winkler.
Heinrichs, who leads the group, shares her hopes for it: “This is a place where women can come and share their concerns, find accountability, and experience love and acceptance for where they’re at. It’s not just for those personally struggling but also for those supporting loved ones.”
The group is open to all women, and no pre-registration is required. “It’s a confidential and safe space,” says Heinrichs. “If you’re nervous, you can sit in your car and watch others go in until you feel ready.”
Support for families through the Concerned Persons group
Another vital offering is the Concerned Persons group, a nine-week program designed for family and friends of those battling addiction. Chaboyer says, “This is for anyone with a loved one struggling—parents, siblings, friends. It gives you tools to understand things like co-dependency, enabling, and offering hope.”
The group has been consistently full since it launched in 2024, but Chaboyer encourages people to call or visit the website to get on a waitlist or join via Zoom. “The best part of this group is that people realize they’re not alone,” he adds.
Breaking free: A personal story of redemption
Chaboyer shares his own story of transformation, showing the power of Teen Challenge programs. “In 2017, I hit rock bottom and wanted to end my life. A friend kept showing me love and reminding me that Jesus loved me too,” he recalls.
He vividly describes the turning point: “One night, I said, ‘God, if You’re real, do something.’ That night changed my life. I was in the back of a cop car, but for the first time, I felt peace.”
Now, Chaboyer is dedicated to helping others find freedom. “Addiction brings so much guilt and shame. At Teen Challenge, we say, ‘Let’s figure out why and work through it together,’” he explains.
Join the journey
The Ready Now Recovery women’s group meets on Wednesdays, while the men’s group meets on Thursdays. Both groups are available in person or via Zoom.
For details or to register, visit www.teenchallenge.tc.
As Chaboyer puts it, “Recovery is about meeting people where they’re at, showing them love, and helping them find their way forward.”
With files from Ty Hildebrand