Teen Challenge to host car auction

In the face of addiction, the faith-based program Teen Challenge offers a glimpse of hope to people in desperate need of perspective, passion and purpose. Nearly 50 men are currently getting a second chance through the 12- to 18-month program located in Colfax.

Next week, Teen Challenge of the Midlands will offer an opportunity for individuals seeking a used car to purchase one at a good price while donating to the program at the same time. One hundred percent of car auction fundraiser proceeds support the Teen Challenge of the Midlands facility, program and residents.

Auctioning will begin at 10 a.m. Feb. 14 at Teen Challenge, 900 N. League Road in Colfax.

More than 40 vehicles will be available at the one-day auction as well as a few campers and boats. A variety of vehicle makes and models will be auctioned including a 2007 Mazda CX-7, 2001 BMW 325i, 2002 Ford Explorer, 2005 Cadillac DeVille and a 1955 Ford Fairlane Coupe. No reserves will be made and all vehicles will sell that day.

Baxter State Savings Bank Branch Manager Larry Opfer has purchased two cars from Teen Challenge car auctions. The first was a 1994 Chevy S10 for his son and the second, a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix. Both cars work well and he’s been very satisfied, Opfer said.

“You can look at the cars online and research the price compared to blue-book price,” Opfer said. “It’s better than a used car sale, because these guys are very honest and accurate with the vehicle history.”

Teen Challenge originated in Brooklyn, N.Y. in 1958 by the Rev. David Wilkerson after reading an article about a group of teenage boys on trial for a gang-related murder. Wilkerson was inspired. He was called to help change the teens lives and devoted his faith to teaching troubled individuals about a better life through Christianity.

More than 50 years later, adult and teen programs for both males and females have been developed to enable individuals to create a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and in turn, live drug-free lives.

Programs, like the men’s program in Colfax, offer a balance of classes, assignments and recreation, according to the organization’s website. The program also helps prepare its residents transitioning from treatment into the “real world” though education and training opportunities.

“We offer the ability for our participants to earn their GED, this is a requirement for those who have never completed high school or earned a GED, and we provide certified trade and skills training in several areas including construction so our students leave Teen Challenge with some practical skills so they can earn a good living,” TCMID Regional Director of Operations Bob Larson said.

Teen Challenge has grown to more than 200 locations in the US and more than 1,000 around the world. Teen Challenge of the Midlands acquired the Colfax property in 1986 and is nearing its 30th anniversary in Jasper County.

“I’ve been to the facility numerous times now and it’s very well-run, organized. Everyone is very appreciative of the chance their are given to turn their life around,” Opfer said. “It’s a wonderful, successful program.”

Auction attendees are encouraged to arrive in advance to allot time for registration. Vehicles may be viewed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 13 and after 8 a.m. Feb. 14. An online list of vehicles can be found at tcmid1.org/auction.

All vehicles will be sold as-is and have been through the Teen Challenge automotive shop to ensure drive-train and properly working equipment like brakes, TCMID Colfax Executive Director Michael Hunsberger said.

Cinnamon rolls, chili and beverages will also be available for purchase at the auction.

For those with auction questions or interest in vehicle donation, call the Teen Challenge Vehicle Donation Center at 1-888-344-HOPE, Vehicle Donation Program Coordinator Brian Schroeder at 515-288-1165, or visit tcmid.org/auction for more information.

Contact Kate Malott at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or at kmalott@newtondailynews.com.