- Executive Directors
Pastor Rick Fernandez, a graduate of Teen Challenge and an ordained minister, has been working with the ministry since 1987. Coming from the gangs and streets of New York and having contended with his own past demons of addiction, Rick is well prepared for the work God has called him to in helping addicts find freedom. You could say he attended the School of Hard Knocks and graduated with honors.
His heart for evangelism and his passion to reach out to and make a difference in the lives of those he serves is evident in his faithfulness to the ministry and in the father’s heart that he has for the hurting men who come through our doors. He truly ministers grace to the ladies as he receives each one into the program with an outstretched hand and an inviting smile, greeting them with a warm “Welcome home!”
Donna Fernandez, a Teen Challenge graduate and credentialed minister, has been a faithful co-laborer alongside her husband Rick in the ministry. She works diligently behind the scenes keeping the administrative departments flowing smoothly. Donna has continuously pursued higher education in order to attain greater levels of excellence in her life and in her ministry. She has received her BA in Psychology from Trinity International University, is a graduate of the NET Institute in addictions studies with a diploma in Restoration Ministry and Prevention and is also a Certified Addiction Professional (CAP).
Donna provides an outstanding example for the ladies of what a woman of godly character looks like walking out this life with Christ. With her gentle ways and calm demeanor she lives out 2 Corinthians 1:4 which charges us to comfort others with the same comfort we ourselves have received.
Together, Rick and Donna, have braved the front lines of battle in the war against drugs and God has used them mightily to both develop and refine this successful training program for people with life-controlling issues. Their dedication to God and to the ministry of Teen Challenge has been and continues to be greatly rewarded as they are able to witness, firsthand, the transforming power of God at work.
