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.
Amy Cruz is a dedicated advocate for recovery. Amy, along with her husband, Oscar, nurtures a beautiful, blended family of 8 children and three grandchildren. Their journey is deeply intertwined with the challenges of addiction, as they support a child currently in recovery. Witnessing the impact of addiction on their family and community, Amy recognized the urgent need for local solutions. Forge Recovery Center emerged as a beacon of hope, offering support to countless individuals and families grappling with addiction.
In her role at Forge, Amy extends a compassionate hand to residents from day one, guiding them through the transformative journey of recovery. She finds profound fulfillment in working closely with each family, uniting them in the pursuit of healing. For Amy, this work isn't just a job—it's a calling. She believes wholeheartedly that no one is beyond reach, and that recovery is not only possible but achievable.
Patrick Bowen, a native of Toombs County and a proud graduate of Forge, is deeply committed to giving back to his community and positive change. His work at Forge Recovery Center is based on his core values of integrity and determination . Patrick’s journey with Forge has been transformative. Today he channels his experiences and values into mentoring current residents, helping them navigate their own paths to recovery with the same support, guidance, and opportunity that was so freely given to him.
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.”