Kern County Teen Challenge started in 1969 with one staff member visiting schools, sharing about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. Eventually, a small two-bedroom house on 316 S. H Street in Bakersfield became the first Kern County Teen Challenge center. In 1979, one acre of land was purchased in Shafter (about 10 miles north of Bakersfield) and became the Shafter Men’s Ranch.

In 1991, through the donation of a long-time friend and supporter of Teen Challenge, a new Women’s Campus was purchased for $485,000 dollars. This miracle money was a clear indication that God’s blessing was on that residential facility.

Since that time, God has continued to bless Kern County Teen Challenge through partnerships with the local community, churches, and supporters. Our women’s center now houses 45 women and the Shafter Men’s Ranch houses 68 men.