From Broken to Leading: James Hughes' Journey

A 14-Year Spiral

James Hughes knows what it feels like to hit rock bottom. After a 14-year spiral of drug abuse, multiple arrests, and imprisonment, James found himself with nowhere else to turn. The choices that once seemed manageable had destroyed relationships, stolen his freedom, and left him hopeless.

But God had other plans.

Finding Hope at Teen Challenge

When James walked through the doors of Alabama Adult & Teen Challenge, he was looking for more than just sobriety—he was searching for purpose. What he found changed everything.

"God used Teen Challenge to save, deliver, and restore my life," James shares. Through the comprehensive 12-month program, James didn't just learn to manage addiction—he discovered a relationship with Jesus Christ that transformed him from the inside out.

The structured residential environment provided exactly what James needed: daily spiritual development through prayer and Bible study, therapeutic counseling to address the roots of his addiction, and hands-on vocational training that prepared him for life after graduation.

A Life Transformed

Today, James N. Hughes III serves as the Program Director at Teen Challenge Bay Minette—the same organization that once gave him hope when he had none left. His journey from participant to director embodies the vision of Alabama Adult & Teen Challenge: seeing broken lives find freedom and become godly leaders who break destructive cycles in their communities.

"Now, as the Director of Teen Challenge Bay Minette, I have the privilege of leading others to the same transformation I experienced through Christ," James explains.

His story illustrates what makes our faith-based approach different. We don't just treat symptoms—we address the spiritual, emotional, and practical roots of addiction through Christ-centered discipleship.

The Power of Complete Restoration

James' transformation includes more than just freedom from drugs. God has:

• Restored his relationships with family
• Called him into full-time ministry
• Given him a family of his own
• Positioned him to help others find the same freedom

This is what we mean when we say participants can be made "100% whole, 100% free, and 100% restored." James is living proof that lasting transformation is possible through the power of Jesus Christ.

Your Story Can Be Different Too

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, James' story is a reminder that hope is within reach. The same Christ-centered program that transformed James' life is available at our four residential centers across Alabama.

Our 12-month program provides:

• Christ-centered spiritual development
• Therapeutic counseling and support
• Vocational training for life after graduation
• An extended family that continues long after the program ends

The journey isn't easy—James committed to the full 12 months and put in the hard work required for lasting change. But the results speak for themselves.

Take the First Step

Whether you're ready to apply or just have questions about the program, our admissions team is here to help. Call 205-763-0909 to learn more about how Alabama Adult & Teen Challenge can help you or your loved one find freedom from addiction.

Your story doesn't have to end in addiction. Like James, you can discover purpose, restoration, and a hope-filled future through Christ.

Ready to start your recovery journey? [Apply Now] or call our admissions team at 205-763-0909.

Want to support transformation stories like James'? [Donate today] to help fund life-changing recovery programs across Alabama.

About Alabama Adult & Teen Challenge

Alabama Adult & Teen Challenge is a faith-based addiction recovery program helping men and women across Alabama break free from life-controlling problems through Christ-centered discipleship. With four residential centers and over 50 years of proven success, we're putting hope within reach for individuals, families, and communities throughout the state.