Meet Our Leadership & Board of Directors

Chris Hodges started serving within Adult & Teen Challenge first, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri at Mid-America Teen Challenge in 1997 then at the Spokane Men’s Campus in Washington as their Executive Director. In 2005, he was elected to his current position as the CEO / President of Adult & Teen Challenge PacWest and has steadily been expanding the reach of the ministry. Twelve residential campuses were added across the region, growing enrollment capacity from 140 to nearly 500 today, and adding 200 new staff members to support the organization’s overall increase. 

Chris’ experience includes being an ordained Assemblies of God minister, service in the Army National Guard, restaurant management, and small business ownership. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Studies and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership. Together, this experience and expertise has allowed Chris to serve on several nonprofit boards, speak at leadership conferences globally, and lead Adult & Teen Challenge PacWest with clear purpose and vision. 

Outside of his professional life, Chris is a devoted husband to Lindy of 37 years, father of two, and grandfather of five. He enjoys spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and caring for his llamas and other small animals.

Brian Nelson serves as Chief Operating Officer, overseeing a multi-state network of recovery centers, licensed treatment programs, thrift stores, and outreach ministries. A graduate of the program himself, Brian’s journey reflects the transformative power of the Teen Challenge mission, putting hope within reach till all live free.

An credentialed Foursquare pastor and Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional, Brian holds an MBA from Northwest Christian University and a Bachelor’s in Strategic Leadership from Life Pacific University. He also serves on the board of Cambodia Teen Challenge, helping extend the ministry’s global reach.

Brian and his wife, Lynae, live in the Pacific Northwest and enjoy traveling and exploring new places together. They are blessed with four adult children and one granddaughter.