New Direction Farm is built around a model of relationship which purposes “We are created for relationship” and it is only within that context that we will be able to begin to understand who God is and who we are. Families who are accepted in the program must commit to at least 6 months. Not only are teen issues addressed but whole family relationships are worked on through counseling sessions and workshops. Teens and families must have a desire to change. Those who reside at New Direction become an active member of the farming community, sharing in the responsibilities of tending cattle, horses, and chickens as well as building fences, caring for pastures and gardens, constructing buildings, riding horses, hiking and fishing. Lifestyle is back to the basics with members of the community sitting around the table and sharing three home cooked meals a day. Prayer before meals as well as study of the Bible is an integral piece of lifestyle on the mountain. This generation of technically plugged-in youth is unplugged at New Direction giving opportunity for face-to-face communication. Cell phones, ipods, cd players, video games, etc are not allowed on property. Recreational time is spent playing football, volleyball as well as playing strategy board games. “Without a vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18). Our goal at New Direction Farm is for each of the youth to leave with a vision for the future and an understanding that only God knows the perfect plan for each of our lives.

New Direction differs from the majority of adolescent programs in the following ways:

• We are a Christ-centered program.
  
• Teens spend weekends at home with family. Not only does this allow the parents and teen to begin working through struggles together, it also affords the teen the continued connection with family and community.
  
• Sliding scale: no one turned away for inability to pay. The majority of programs similar to New Direction cost between $3,000 - $5,000 per month.
  
• Largely supported through the Body of Christ (individuals and churches)
  
• Staffing is quite different from most adolescent programs. Average age of staff member: 40. Founders not only live on property but also serve as houseparents.