Breaking Code Silence is a network of institutional abuse survivors who are/were incarcerated in the U.S. “troubled teen industry” (TTI), a network of privately-owned, powerfully punitive, and largely wilderness-based programs, residential treatment centers, therapeutic boarding schools, group homes, boot camps, and faith-based academies.

In March 2021, we formally became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with an innovative and trauma-informed organizational model that supports the unique needs of this population and facilitates the multifaceted approach to institutional reform.

Breaking Code Silence is a vehicle for the TTI survivor community – ever striving to uplift, organize, and inspire present and future generations, while promoting youth rights and evidence-based alternatives to the troubled teen industry. Our activities are conducted by a dedicated, resourceful team of volunteer survivors and allies. Continuing to support the initiatives and deepen the social and intellectual capacities of existing and aspiring survivor-leaders is central to our mission.

We are committed to ensuring that Breaking Code Silence becomes an enduring, powerful, and professional organization capable of achieving our shared mission.