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Who We Are

Craig George

FOUNDER/ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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. Additionally, he is the assistant director of the Gardens of Hope Recovery Community Organization.

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.
Craig George- Founder

Todd Hamm

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
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.”
Todd Hamm- Assistant Director

Amy Cruz

OFFICE MANAGER
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.



AMy Cruz- Office Manager

James Thevenin

OPERATIONS MANAGER
James Thevenin is a proud long-term recovery advocate and one of the original graduates of Forge Recovery Center, an organization that profoundly transformed his life. As the ninth resident of Forge, James experienced firsthand the life-saving guidance and support that the center offers. Transitioning from a resident to a dedicated staff member, he has played a pivotal role in witnessing and contributing to the growth of Forge from a single house with just a few residents to a thriving 50-man program that continues to change lives daily. Reflecting on his journey, James shares that Forge not only provided him with a fresh start but also restored his hope and purpose. His personal transformation and new life are a testament to the impact Forge Recovery Center has had on him and countless others.
Andrew Lillard- Operations Manager

Patrick Bowen

OPERATIONS MANAGER
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.
Andrew Lillard- Operations Manager

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.

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 $1300 which covers their first month's rent, intake fee, and program materials. After the first month, there will be a $220 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

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