“Transparency is inseparable from trust. Our community of supporters and the people we serve deserve to know what we do, how we do it, and what we’re working toward. This recognition affirms that commitment.”

McClendon Center is proud to announce it has been awarded the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, the world’s largest source of nonprofit information. This marks the first time in the organization’s history that it has achieved Candid’s highest level of recognition — placing McClendon Center in the top 0.1% of charities nationally in terms of transparency.

The Platinum Seal signals that McClendon Center openly shares comprehensive information about its goals, strategies, capabilities, achievements, and the measurable impact it delivers for residents across Washington, DC. For an organization whose work depends on the trust of clients, partners, and the communities it serves, this recognition reflects values that have defined McClendon Center since its founding in 1980.

“Transparency is inseparable from trust,” said Sheandinita Dyson, President and CEO. “Our community of supporters and the people we serve — many of whom have been failed by systems that were not accountable to them — deserve to know what we do, how we do it, and what we’re working toward. This recognition affirms that commitment.”

Each year, McClendon Center serves more than 3,000 District residents living with serious mental illness, the majority of whom are African American, low-income, and concentrated in Wards 7 and 8. The Center provides integrated psychiatric care, substance use recovery support, community-based services, and emergency room engagement across a full continuum of care.

Donors, partners, and the public can learn more about McClendon Center’s programs and impact on our Candid profile or right here on mcclendoncenter.org.

McClendon Center is proud to share that President & CEO Sheandinita Dyson has joined the Board of Directors of the DC Behavioral Health Association (DBHA), a leading voice for behavioral health providers across the District.

Founded in 1983, the DC Behavioral Health Association works to create a District where all residents with mental illness or substance use disorders receive high-quality, whole-person care. Its membership includes mental health and addiction treatment providers, primary care organizations, consumer- and family-run groups, hospitals, managed care and commercial health plans, academic institutions, and community-based service providers.

DBHA represents its members in policy advocacy before the DC Council and Executive Branch, strengthens service quality through training and technical assistance, and promotes community engagement and public education around prevention, early intervention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery.

Appointed President & CEO in 2022, Dyson brings nearly two decades of experience advancing community-based mental health care in Washington, DC. Since joining McClendon Center in 2008 as a Community Support Specialist, she has risen through multiple leadership roles, culminating in her appointment as the first woman to lead the organization since its founding in 1980.

Under her leadership, McClendon Center has strengthened managed care partnerships, expanded post-hospital discharge coordination services, and reinforced its role as a critical safety-net provider serving more than 3,000 vulnerable DC residents annually.

Dyson’s appointment to the DBHA Board reflects her extensive experience within the District’s Medicaid and behavioral health ecosystem, care coordination, and community-based service delivery. Her leadership will help advance advocacy and strengthen the behavioral health continuum across Washington, DC.

As 2025 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on a year full of connection, growth, and community at McClendon Center. Every day, we witness moments of care, resilience, and joy that remind us why our work matters. And, it wouldn’t be possible without you.

We’re excited to share a short video capturing a snapshot of 2025, including milestones and moments that showcase the spirit of our community.

From all of us at McClendon Center, thank you for being part of our journey.

Wishing you a season filled with warmth, joy, and togetherness, and a bright start to 2026.

Just over a year ago, Isaac became a client at McClendon Center.

Reflecting on his journey, he says the guidance he’s received from his psychiatrist has been especially impactful.

While Isaac had sought help before through other doctors and clinics, he feels that McClendon Center has given him something different: clearer direction and a stronger sense of support.

What stands out most to him is the exceptional level of care he’s received — all covered by Medicaid.

“Usually, this type of care is very expensive, or to get a good psychiatrist, you have to pay privately and handle the paperwork yourself,” he shared.

For Isaac, McClendon Center has been a steady source of comfort and connection.

“McClendon Center has provided a moment of relative comfort in my life,” he said, expressing gratitude for the social support and therapeutic care that have made a meaningful difference.

At McClendon Center, we’re honored to stand along clients like Isaac as they work toward stability, growth, and wellness — every step of the way.