Our Mission Statement
Third Way Center offers truth and hope to high risk, mentally ill, disadvantaged and often homeless adolescents and their families.
Our History
Founded in 1970
Hildegard Messenbaugh, MD, a noted Denver psychiatrist at the University of Colorado Medical Center, was approached by concerned members of the community about the growing number of adolescents living on the streets.
Within the Denver Community
Many of these young people fled turbulent and traumatic family situations, had trouble with the law, or had recently left other institutional settings. With Dr. Messenbaugh’s guidance and the support of the Denver community, an alternative to homelessness for troubled youth was formed.
Third Way Center Helps
This third way grew from one shelter for troubled teens to a continuum of services, offering a path to healing and wholeness that we are today. For nearly half a century, Third Way Center has helped transform the lives of thousands of teens, empowering them to build better future lives for themselves.
“Trauma is curable. It isn’t just suppressable or manageable, it’s really curable.”
Learn More About Us
People are the heart and soul of Third Way Center’s mission
Success Stories
From the words of those who have gone through Third Way Center’s programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
Community Partners
