Impact Report 2024-2025
Words of Hope and Healing
We come through these doors hopeless but brave warriors from the streets of broken promises.
As we look around the room, we may be different to others’ views. But deep down inside you are no different from me as I am no different from you.
I am that I.V. junkie.
I am that crackhead.
I am that cokehead
I am that pill popper popping pills.
I don't know how to stop ‘till I'm dead
I am that hoe on a corner that’ll steal from you with no warning Advertising $85 for the lucky ride or $45 for the sloppy head.
I am that dressed up garbage can hustler. Hustling to support his habit. Talking about I'm getting bread.
Let me stand with you because I can't stand alone on my own. And done sold my beeper, cell phones and sneakers. Please believe I'm trying to reach and teach you before you go out there in that storm.
Because it's a cold world out there and some of us done froze to death because we ain’t had no jackets to hold us
As addicts we want, when we want it throwing away years of recovery because we want to go to our old neighborhoods and flaunt it.
Literally hunted by them shadow people. When that ice starts to sizzle, telling ourselves next time it will happen because this time I’ll just do a little.
All we need is to be pointed in the right direction and for somebody else to hold us.
I don't know about you, but I'm tired of carrying a big bag of guilt on my shoulder the size of a goddamn boulder.
I surrender to the God of my understanding because my life is unmanageable.
See this fellowship promises recovery. You’ll love it, see, but you gotta work for it…
They ain’t just gonna hand it to you.
-Poem by Brian, Residential Patient
What’s Inside
Letter from Leadership Who We Are Year in Review by the Numbers Improving Patient Care Grant Funded Programs
In the Community Sharing Our Story In the Spotlight Our Staff Financial Stewardship
Board of Trustees
Executive Committee
Joan Harpootlian-Thomas Philip Thomas Fine Homebuilding Chair
Rob McCain HomeTrust Bank Secretary
Board Members
Victor Armstrong American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Anthony Danielly JE Dunn
Lynn Hansen Crowder Constructors Inc
Kim Holt WSOC-TV
Bruce Lillie Mecklenburg County DA Office
Richard Wright Moon, Wright, and Houston Vice Chair
Kenny Colbert Retired Treasurer
David Lopez CMPD
Dr. Daya Patton Wingate University
Dr. James Rachal Atrium Health
Josh Sampson Pike Engineering
Carter Sorrell Doerre Construction
99% of patients felt they were treated with dignity and respect by staff
Letter from Leadership
Dear Friends and Partners,
As I reflect on the past year at McLeod Centers for Wellbeing, I am struck by the resilience, dedication, and compassion of our workforce. Last year, our organization set a bold and singular goal: to prioritize our people. We knew that by investing in our staff, supporting their growth, and creating a workplace where they feel valued, we could reduce turnover and strengthen the care we provide to our patients. I am proud to report that these efforts are yielding real results—not just in workforce stability, but in the quality of care our patients experience every day.
Our commitment to improving patient care has been equally steadfast. We expanded access to provider visits, reduced restrictions on take-home medications, and introduced a harm-reduction–focused curriculum within our residential programs. These enhancements reflect our ongoing dedication to meeting patients where they are and supporting them with the tools, education, and care they need to thrive.
Financial stewardship has also been a key focus. Through careful planning and thoughtful management, we ended the year with a healthier cash reserve than anticipated—providing a strong foundation to support future growth, expand services, and continue delivering on our mission.
This year, we also celebrated a milestone in our commitment to both patients and staff: the renovation of our Gastonia clinic. The refreshed space offers a modern, welcoming environment for patients and a workplace that our employees can take pride in. It is a physical representation of the care, respect, and support we strive to bring into every aspect of our organization.
None of this progress would be possible without the tireless efforts of our staff, the trust of our patients, and the steadfast support of our partners. As we look ahead, we remain focused on innovation, excellence, and the well-being of our people and our community. Together, we are building a stronger McLeod Centers for Wellbeing—one that continues to set the standard for compassionate, high-quality behavioral healthcare.
97%
ts respond that they would recommend McLeod Centers to others.
Who We Are
Our Mission
Build a foundation of healing and hope based on equity, education, and evidencebased practice for all communities.
Our Vision
Our Values
With a foundation of healing and hope: McLeod Centers’ vision is to enable holistic care, guiding every individual’s journey to wellness. We will stand as the preferred destination for inclusive healthcare and recovery services, empowering all communities to thrive. Do
Our Services
Residential
Who We Are
Where We Serve
"I wanted to state since the new leadership has came along I've been very satisfied the new take home rules are great they have help me with saving money and time and being able to have the flexibility thank your for the new policy for take homes KEEP UP THE EXCELLENT WORK and I appreciate the councilors and Staff at Hickory."
– Hickory patient
“McLeod gave me hope when all felt lost I will forever be grateful for the gift of MAT and the counselors that steered my life into such a positive direction Thank you, McLeod ”
– Lenoir patient
“The McLeod Center has been my saving grace They have helped me turn my life around for the better and they continue to do so. I recommend anyone with a substance abuse problem come here for help... They won't regret it!”
– Statesville patient
“It has been a great experience as a steppingstone to sobriety ” – Concord patient
“Everyone at this clinic are amazing people! Everyone treats me with respect and at anytime I need anything all I have to do is ask The ladies at the front desk are always helpful and it’s always nice to see their smiling faces. If it was not for Marion McLeod I would not have the amazing life I have!”
– Marion patient
“I’ve been a patient here for over ten years It has literally changed my life. I’m so grateful and proud to say that I’m now a productive member of society. I have great relationships with my family and I continue to work on myself with the support of McLeod Center ”
– Monroe patient
“McLeod saved my life and gave me the ability to rebuild my life without the consequences of a painful withdrawal. I’ve always been treated with respect, and like they actually truly care ” – Gastonia patient
“Thank you for helping me get back on track and giving me some tools to be a productive citizen” – Charlotte patient
4,764
Patients received services at McLeod Centers for Wellbeing
Hickory
Marion
Charlotte
Gastonia Concord
Statesville
Lenoir Monroe
Year in Review: By the Numbers
What patients respond they are most proud of since starting treatment
Gender Breakdown
Patient Age Breakdown
Year in Review: By the Numbers
Patient Census by Program
Patient Payment Source
867,913
Doses of Methadone and Buprenorphine Distributed
Improved Environments of Care
Gastonia Remodel
With support of grant funding and in-kind donations, McLeod Centers installed a reading nook on the residential floor. This comfortable and welcoming space includes cozy seating, a diverse collection of books, and reading materials to cater to various interests and educational levels. The reading nook will be a retreat for our residents, fostering a calm environment that promotes personal growth and mental wellness while seeking treatment with McLeod Centers.
The transformation of Gastonia reflects the ongoing commitment to providing a healing, welcoming environment—not just for the patients we serve, but for the dedicated teams who care for them every day. We believe the environment of care matters deeply, both as a place to heal and a place to work.
Renovations will begin this year on two more clinics, continuing this journey to elevate all seven of the smaller locations. Each year, we’ll move forward with additional renovations, guided by the same purpose: to create spaces that inspire trust, dignity, and compassion.
Improvements are a key part of our Strategic Priority to be the provider of choice in our communities.
Dr. Logan Adams
was welcomed in October 2024 as the new Medical Director for McLeod Centers for Wellbeing.
Residential Reading Nook
Gastonia Front Office
Patient Care
Updated Residential Curriculum
Launched in January 2025, a new curriculum for group therapy was launched in McLeod’s 28-day residential treatment program. The curriculum was developed by McLeod Clinical staff and a behavioral health consultant.
Hurricane Helene Relief
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the McLeod Team came together to support our staff and patients in Marion and Lenoir. Water and snacks were delivered and ready for patients the Monday morning after the storm.
In the week following the storm, the team put together over 80 hygiene kits with basic essentials and provided clothes and shoes. McLeod is continuing support with needs, most recently sending blankets and sleeping bags.
$3800
raised to support McLeod patients in Catawba, McDowell and Caldwell Counties impacted by Helene for the purchase of water and shelf stable items to give to patients who are able to visit the clinic.
Grant Funded Programs
Gaston County Medication Assisted Treatment Scholarship Fund
The program provides:
Uninsured and Underinsured residents of Gaston County with Evidence-Based Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder, residential services, as well as care navigation to address social determinants of health that may impact a patient’s recovery.
A Nurse Care Navigator that assists patients with applying for financial assistance, connecting patients with mental health providers, scheduling appointments with outside agencies, transportation needs, and linking patients to community resources.
Patients supported with funds to begin treatment.
of patients reported an improvement in their quality of life after participating in the GCMATS program.
of patients working with the nurse navigator adhere to treatment 6 months after first appointment. referrals made to additional services for patients by the nurse navigator
Mecklenburg County Emergency Financial Assistance
Patients received financial assistance for rent, utilities or housing support.
of patients reported having stable housing at the end of the program of patients who received emergency fund support remained in treatment for 30 days post disbursement.
Family Therapy Program
The program provides:
A Financial Navigator that works with the patient’s clinician to identify a financial stability goal within the patient’s PersonCentered Plan. 65 85% 76% 145
Financial assistance for patients who have received past due or disconnection notices from a utility company, past due notices from a landlord, or to subsidize temporary housing
McLeod Center for Wellness Family Program, provides compassionate support and resources for families and friends affected by addiction. We aim to empower loved ones with knowledge, foster understanding, and create a safe space for sharing experiences.
The Family Program for Outpatient consists of:
An open group that is hosted every 2 and 4 Wednesday of the month from 6pm – 7:30pm strictly for families and friends at the Chalotte Location. nd th
The Wednesday night group is a processing group for families and friends
The Residential Program is called “Open House” which is designated solely for the residential patients that takes place on a Saturday every 28 days.
“Open House” consists of guest speakers, fellowship, and lunch for those who participate. The guests who are invited to speak can also be utilized as resources for those who participate because many of them are therapists who specialize in addiction
families and friends have been served by the program
In the Community
Wilkes County Recovery Rally
65+
community partnerships created for the benefit of patients
Catawba Valley Pride
Burke County Recovery Rally
APNC Fall Conference CVCC Conference
NCATOD Conference
Governor’s Institute Spring Conference
APNC Spring Conference
NCACC Conference
SMART Recovery National Conference 10+ presentations made by staff on local, state and national levels including with Wingate University, APNC and Massachusetts General Hospital Primary Care Residency Program
In the Spotlight Marketing
Interviews
Northeastern University presented McLeod Centers with the Heart of Charlotte of Award, their top award for community collaborations
Our Staff
Wh ployees Enjoy Working at McLeod C
“I love working for McLeod because it is so rewarding watching people’s lives change for the better. I am passionate about the MAT community and truly believe that it saves lives.”
-Kaley, Counselor-Lenoir
“I truly enjoy the variety of projects I work on and the meaningful interactions I have with team members. Whether it's collaborating on initiatives or tackling a scheduling puzzle, every day brings something new and rewarding. I love being part of an organization committed to promoting well-being and making a positive impact in the lives of others.”
-Monica, Special Projects Coordinator
Founder’s Day Employee Celebration
An annual gathering of staff to celebrate accomplishment from the year. Staff enjoyed lunch from food trucks, games, raffle prizes and annual employee awards.
“I believe human life is invaluable, yet often underappreciated. This belief aligns with McLeod’s commitment to dignity and respect for all.”
-Farah, Community Outreach Specialist
36%
drop in employee turnover from previous year- 44.13% to 28.46%
Looking Forward
At McLeod Centers, we are planning boldly for growth, expanding our reach through new programs and innovative services designed to meet the evolving needs of our communities. The future is bright as we build on our foundation of healing and hope to create even greater impact in the years ahead.
Bringing Care to Communities: Mobile Opioid Treatment Program
The Mobile Medicine Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) initiative represents an innovative, equity-driven approach to addressing Mecklenburg County’s and Gaston County’s overdose crisis and barriers to addiction care. The OTP unit will bring methadone and buprenorphinebased treatment directly to underserved areas of the counties, particularly neighborhoods with high rates of overdose, homelessness, and racial health disparities, where access to OTP programs are limited/non existent.
Adolescent Outpatient Treatment
In Mecklenburg County, access to adolescent Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Programs (SAIOP) is extremely limited—only four programs exist, and just one accepts Medicaid. This gap leaves many families without affordable treatment options, especially those without private insurance. McLeod Centers for Wellbeing is stepping in to close this gap by adding an adolescent SAIOP program, ensuring that all young people, including those who are justice-involved, have access to assessment and treatment. Expanding this care is a critical step in breaking down financial barriers and providing adolescents the support they need to begin their recovery journey.
Expanding Access with Office Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT)
OBOT allows patients to receive evidence-based medications for opioid use disorder—such as buprenorphine—in a primary care or office setting. The benefits are clear: OBOT increases accessibility for patients who may not be able to attend daily clinic visits, reduces barriers to treatment, and integrates recovery into everyday healthcare. By combining medical management with counseling and support services, OBOT empowers patients to sustain recovery while living and working in their communities. Adding OBOT reflects McLeod’s commitment to meeting people where they are, offering flexible pathways to care, and ensuring that the future of treatment is both accessible and patientcentered.
