Teen Challenge of the Dakotas receives Outstanding Service Award

In officer Trove's nomination letter, she also states,                    "Teen Challenge is a value driven program and practices daily the concept of restorative justice. Mike and his staff lead by example and live these values which are so necessary in helping the men they serve."

   Dan Mielke, court services officer from Brookings County, has worked closely with our program for the past 10 years. Officer Mielke endorsed the nomination and he writes, "Teen Challenge of the Dakotas is all about giving a man an opportunity to redirect his life and replace his wrongful habits with good and responsible habits. The men who enter Teen Challenge and succeed there are finding a faith in God they had not known before. That faith has afforded them the hope and belief that their lives are of value and that life can be better."

   Officer Mielke also states, "For many who come to Teen Challenge, this is their last opportunity to remain out of the prison system… It is not about doing time but an opportunity to change one's way of life.

Teen Challenge of the Dakotas Director Mike Gilmartin states, "Upon receiving this award I was able to offer some remarks during the Corrections Association Banquet. It was a great honor and privilege to share about how the powerful grace of God is changing men's lives at Teen Challenge of the Dakotas. Those in attendance were probation and parole officers, attorneys and judges. It was awesome to offer them hope. Hope, for the troubled lives they serve in their respective communities. The most important item I shared that night was that the Bible says, "All scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for (correction)…" 2 Timothy 4:16 God is the ultimate authority, and His word is the standard for correcting whatever is wrong in a man's life.