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Who We Are

Kelman MathewsKelman MathewsBusiness Development

Helping Men Overcome Addiction and Find Purpose

Forge is a nonprofit organization that is bringing a new look to the face of recovery. We focus on the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of life. We are a highly structured program that instills accountability and responsibility into our residents. The stages of this program are designed to slowly reintroduce the life lessons we either missed or the ones that fell by the wayside while we were on our destructive paths.

Recovery is a process, not an event. Forge implements a program of love...tough love. This journey to recovery is more than just the absence of drugs and alcohol. It is a series of steps taken to restore sanity and reprogram the mind. Forge is a divergent and well-rounded treatment facility that has emerged as the premier center for addiction treatment in southern Georgia. Forge offers a 30-day intensive outpatient program, in-house sponsorship program, inclusive community service program, dynamic culture of recovery, in-house non-clinical programming, yoga classes, bible study sessions, spiritual/religious events, peer support, stellar accountability, and most importantly the 12-steps. This is not a religious program; however, this is a God-centered program and one can witness this fact from the work we do and the very essence of the culture at Forge.

Moreover, men arrive at Forge broken, depressed, angry, delusional, and ambivalent. However, through recovery, these same men become hopeful, excited, leaders, community volunteers, and contributing members of society. We provide men with a safe environment to begin and continue their recovery process. We do not shy away from community involvement but rather embrace the opportunity to work with our neighbors to improve our overall community and remove the stigma attached to addiction and the recovery community.

Our Board Members

Tim FowlerTim Fowler
Danny LeaDanny Lea
Chris AlvarezChris Alvarez
Marshall HarrisMarshall Harris
Ambi McManusAmbi McManus
Garrett WilcoxGarrett Wilcox
Sam MarshSam Marsh

Frequently asked questions

Our program is a 12-24 month community-based program designed to help men recover from addiction and reintegrate into society as productive members.

Our program is open to men aged 18 and older who suffer from addiction, both chemical and behavioral.

During your time at our recovery center, you can expect a supportive community, personalized treatment plans, and a focus on helping you rebuild your life.

Yes, we are licensed and insured and have received several certifications and accreditations, including GARR and Thor

Residents pay a non-refundable entry fee of $1500 which covers their first month's rent, intake fee, and program materials. After the first month, there will be a $250 weekly rent fee. Rent includes housing, food, recovery support, and access to counseling.

It's not uncommon for persons with substance use disorders to have legal issues. We will work with courts, attorneys, and probation to support entry into our program and ensure compliance throughout their time at the Forge.

  • Valid Picture ID and Social Security Card (Mandatory for Job Search)


  • One suitcase of clothing that is weather-appropriate which includes comfortable t-shirts (no alcohol/drug references please)


  • Clothes for a week: work clothes, shorts, underwear, socks, dress shirts, dress pants, necktie, tennis shoes, dress shoes, and flip-flops


  • Alarm clock (battery operated)


  • Watch


  • Laundry Basket


  • Toiletries that do NOT have alcohol in them

Todd Hamm is a person in long-term recovery with over eight years of experience in the fields of addiction treatment and behavioral health. Todd graduated from Columbia College with a Bachelor's degree in Human Services with a minor in Psychology. He also holds a Master of Science degree from Capella University in Addiction Studies and is a Certified Master Addiction Counselor through the Georgia Addiction Counselor’s Association.

Furthermore, Todd is a Certified Peer Specialist in addictive disease, mental health, and whole health and wellness. He is a combat veteran that believes in God, family, and country; and with that comes recovery, responsibility, and perseverance. “I believe in encouraging individuals to seek and experience personal freedom from substance use disorder and mental health challenges. Here at Forge, we believe in finding the root of an individual's addictive behaviors and role-modeling a different way to live. Connection is the opposite of addiction.”

Michael Podlesny is a proud graduate of Forge Recovery Center and a member of its first graduating class. Living as a person in long-term recovery, his life is centered on giving back what was so freely given to him. Michael is CARES certified and has earned his CPS-AD. His own journey in long-term recovery helps him connect with and support the men at Forge.

A devoted husband and father, Michael’s recovery is rooted in his faith in God and his commitment to family. These foundations guide the way he lives, serves, and walks alongside others. He believes recovery is built on honesty, accountability, and grace, and that lasting change grows through connection with God and community.

At Forge, Michael supports the program through administrative responsibilities and peer support, using his own journey and convictions to be a steady presence for residents as they rebuild trust, purpose, and direction in their lives.

Craig George is a native of Richmond Hill, Georgia. He moved to Toombs County in 2015. At that time he began his journey in recovery, which has ultimately led to his life’s work. Craig has attained several state certifications. He is a Certified Addiction Recovery Empowerment Specialist, a Certified Peer Specialist for addictive disease, a Forensic Peer Mentor, and a Moral Recognition Therapy Instructor.

Craig is a man who is invested in his family, individuals, and his community. He is a member of the Serendipity Group of Narcotics Anonymous (NA) in Vidalia, Georgia. He has served this 12-step fellowship, in many roles, since the beginning of his recovery. Those roles include Secretary, Hospitals and Institutions Facilitator, and Public Relations Chair for the Savannah Low Country Area of NA. Craig George has proven to be a champion for those who live with substance use disorders and mental health challenges throughout the state of Georgia.