Draft:Crucible Project

The Crucible Project is a global Christian ministry founded in 2002 by Greg Huston. Headquartered initially in the Chicagoland area, the organization now serves participants across the United States, Mexico, Australia, and other regions. The ministry is best known for offering Christian retreats and transformational experiences for men—and more recently, some women—focused on emotional healing, personal responsibility, and Christian discipleship.

History

The Crucible Project began as a response to a perceived need among Christian men for deeper emotional and spiritual connection. Founder Greg Huston created the ministry in 2002 after attending a men's weekend retreat that sparked his vision for a more integrated, Christ-centered experience. Over time, The Crucible Project expanded its reach and offerings, becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a growing international presence.

In March 2019, Roy D.Wooten was named Executive Director, succeeded by Chris Cleghorn, who currently leads the organization.

Mission and Values

The Crucible Project is grounded in three core values:

• Integrity – Facing truth, owning one's actions, and living honestly (Matthew 5:37; Ephesians 4:25–27).
• Courage – Taking personal risks, confronting fears, and calling out the best in others (1 Thessalonians 5:14–15; Proverbs 20:5).
• Grace – Offering acceptance and space for growth, as modeled by Christ (Romans 15:7; 1 Peter 4:8).

These values are integrated into every aspect of the organization's programming and leadership development.

Programs

The Crucible Project's flagship program is its Initial Weekend Retreat, an intensive experience designed to help men confront personal struggles, grow in spiritual maturity, and experience emotional breakthrough. Participants engage in guided activities rooted in Christian principles, group support, and individual reflection.

Additional offerings include:

• Second-Level Weekends
• Small Group Integration
• Leadership Development Tracks
• Women's Retreat Pilots (in select regions)

In 2024, over 7,000 men have graduated from the initial Weekend Retreat. As of 2025, that number has now increased to 8,000.

Global Reach

What started in the U.S. has since expanded internationally. The Crucible Project now operates retreats and small groups in Australia, Mexico, and other locations, with training programs aimed at equipping local leaders to carry the ministry forward.

Media and Recognition

The Crucible Project has received mentions in Christian publications, published books, and community news outlets. Examples include:

• Battle Cry: Waging and Winning the War Within by Jason Wilson (2021)
• The Promise Keepers Roller Coaster: Learning from Historical Successes and Monumental Failures by Daniel F. Hauser (2023)
• Crosswalk.com - What I Learned about Men at a Women's Conference - (2018)
• 16 News Now WNDU TV South Bend - Race Across America: Penn High School teacher completes 'Race Across America (2022)'
• The Father Hood - Lost A Mate? Here's What You Need To Do For Their Kids: Reflections on grief and parenting connected to Crucible's mission
• Recognized for Excellence in Giving by Nonprofit Analytics (2025)
• The Simply Monique Radio Show: "Can a man be whole, healthy, and love their wife?" (April 3, 2025)
• Real Men Talk: "160 - Breaking Free: Healing Men's Wounds Through Christ with Roy Wooten" (February 13, 2025)
• Pirate Monk Podcast: "403 | Roy Wooten | Honesty, Healing, and Community in the Present" (January 17, 2025)
• Throwing Mountains: "Getting to the Root of Your Dysfunction with Roy Wooten, Executive Director of The Crucible Project" (November 23, 2021)
• Chron: Shield-Bearer Counseling Centers offers 107^th marriage workshop" (March 31, 2013)

Leadership

The organization is currently led by Executive Director Roy D.Wooten, with previous leadership from Chris Cleghorn and founder Greg Huston. The leadership team continues to expand as the organization trains facilitators and leaders globally.

Challenges

While not facing public controversies, The Crucible Project acknowledges the ongoing challenge of reaching individuals who are resistant to vulnerability, spiritual accountability, or emotional growth—often due to ego, pride, or lack of exposure to these types of environments.