Shelterwood is a faith-based residential treatment center for at-risk teens. We believe that every teen was created by God and has great value and purpose. We use a multi-disciplinary approach to help teens understand their value and purpose.

The word “Shelterwood” describes a forestry technique in which older, stronger trees shelter and protect younger trees on the forest floor until they stand, grow and thrive on their own. In the same way, Shelterwood offers struggling teens a safe, loving place to heal and flourish.

Our story begins in 1980, when our founder, Richard Beach, was mentoring college students in life, leadership and the teachings of Jesus through a ministry called Doulos. One of his board members had a teen daughter that was struggling, and he asked Richard if his daughter could come live together with these young adults. Richard agreed. Through the mentoring and encouragement from the young adults at Doulos and through some additional professional therapy, her life was transformed. Seeing his family restored, this father encouraged Richard to reach out to other families and continue providing a faith-based treatment center and boarding school for struggling teens. This laid the foundation for Shelterwood.