After five years of transformational leadership, Russ Cambria is stepping away from his role as Chief Executive Officer of Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge, leaving behind a legacy of growth, innovation, and life-changing impact.
When Russ assumed leadership in 2021, Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge operated two locations with an annual budget of approximately $700,000. Under his direction, the organization expanded to five locations across North Carolina and South Carolina, growing into a multi-state ministry with an annual operating budget exceeding $2.2 million.
A defining characteristic of Russ’s leadership was his commitment to developing people. He intentionally built strong leadership teams and empowered them to operate with excellence, accountability, and increasing independence. His emphasis on leadership development created a culture of ownership and sustainability that will continue to benefit the organization for years to come.
Among the most significant milestones achieved during his tenure was the launch of Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge’s first women’s program. This expansion opened new opportunities for restoration and recovery for women struggling with addiction and other life-controlling issues, extending the ministry’s reach to an entirely new population in need of hope and healing.
Russ also helped lead the implementation of the organization’s first state-licensed Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program (SAIOP), strengthening clinical services while preserving the ministry’s Christ-centered approach to recovery. This advancement broadened the continuum of care available to individuals and families seeking freedom from addiction.
Under Russ’s leadership, Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge also achieved significant organizational and financial milestones. The ministry earned accreditation from the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), demonstrating its commitment to the highest standards of financial stewardship, governance, and accountability. In 2026, the organization also received its highest rating to date from Charity Navigator, earning a 98% score and a prestigious Four-Star designation, placing it among the nation’s most trusted nonprofit organizations.
The organization’s growth was reflected not only in its facilities and programs but also in its impact. Today, Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge maintains an average student census of 55 to 60 individuals across its multiple locations, providing life-changing recovery services to more men and women than at any other point in its history.
Russ has accepted a new senior leadership role with Global Teen Challenge, based in Georgia, which oversees over 1,400 programs in 146 countries. He will become the organization’s Director of Global Leadership Development & Learning. In this position, he will help develop and strengthen leadership training programs for ministry leaders across the United States and around the world, equipping future leaders to build healthy, sustainable, and effective recovery ministries.
As Russ begins this new chapter, Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge expresses its sincere gratitude for his faithful service, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the mission. The organization is stronger today because of his dedication and looks forward with confidence to the future he helped build.
This week, the Board of Directors appointed Brian Decker to serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer. Larry Caddell, Chairman of the Board said, “Brian has been an integral part of the organization’s leadership team and will work closely with staff, stakeholders, and ministry partners to ensure a smooth transition while continuing the mission of bringing hope and restoration to those affected by addiction and life-controlling issues. Brian is a gifted leader, alumnus of the organization, and has most recently served as the organization’s Chief Financial Officer. Russ recommended him to the board, and the decision to approve was unanimous.”
Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge remains committed to its mission and is well-positioned to continue changing lives and strengthening communities throughout the region.