McClendon Center is excited to announce that Michael Burt has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer. In this role, Michael is responsible for the oversight of daily operational activities, strategic planning, project management and providing leadership throughout the organization. “Michael has been an integral part of the McClendon Center family since March 2009, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication,” said Sheandinita Dyson, McClendon Center President and CEO. “We’re thrilled to elevate him into this role which more accurately reflects the breadth and depth of his responsibilities and contributions. As COO, he will continue to ensure our operations align seamlessly with our mission, vision, and values.” Michael joined McClendon Center as a Team Leader in March 2009, later assuming dual responsibilities as Director of Quality Improvement in April 2014. Since 2022, he has served as Senior Director and Chief of Staff. “I’ve spent nearly 16 years at McClendon Center, and it’s been incredibly rewarding,” said Michael. “The opportunity to impact countless lives and collaborate with such talented staff has been a true honor. I’m excited to continue this journey as Chief Operating Officer.”
The McClendon Center is thrilled to welcome Natalie Foster as its new Director of Development. “We’re thrilled to welcome Natalie to our leadership team,” said Sheandinita Dyson, McClendon Center’s President and CEO. “Her expertise will be invaluable as we expand our reach and impact in our community.” Natalie is an accomplished nonprofit leader with over 14 years of experience in resource development working to connect, support and empower lives in the community. She joins the McClendon Center from Virginia Ready, a statewide organization focused on workforce development. Natalie has led numerous successful fundraising initiatives and annual fund campaigns to support the missions of nonprofits. Her expertise will help elevate McClendon Center’s outreach to donors on the critical need of quality behavioral mental healthcare in our region and the importance of their contributions to supporting our clients to become their best selves. “I am honored to join the McClendon Center team and contribute to the well-being of our community,” said Foster. “Our clients inspire me with their resilience and creativity. By supporting the McClendon Center, we can empower individuals to reach their full potential.” Natalie holds a master’s degree in human resource management from the University of Richmond. She resides in Annapolis, Maryland, and enjoys playing pickleball in her free time. Please join us in welcoming Natalie to the McClendon Center team!
At McClendon Center, we are proud to highlight the remarkable achievements of our clients, and today, we’re thrilled to spotlight Patrice, a dedicated art therapy participant at our Day Program. Her powerful piece, Everything Starts and Ends With Me, has been chosen for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Gallery of Hope 2024, which highlights the role of artistic creativity in mental health and substance use recovery. Patrice’s work showcases both her talent and her inner journey to self-discovery and healing.
Patrice shared, “I used to blame everyone and everything for my substance abuse. I suffered low self-esteem because of it. From group therapy for dual diagnosis of substance use disorder and Bipolar disorder, I now know that everything starts and ends with me. This is me looking at myself for the answer.”
View the featured artwork here
Her insight reflects a profound transformation that many of our clients experience, illustrating how art can serve as a vital tool for reflection and empowerment. At McClendon Center, we celebrate stories like Patrice’s, where creativity meets resilience, proving that recovery is not only possible but also deeply personal.
You can see and purchase more of Patrice’s artwork here
Art of Transformation 2024
Thursday, November 14 | 6:00-8:00 pm
📍 Studio 52 | 1508 Okie St NE, Washington, DC
Join us for an evening filled with art, inspiration, and community. Here’s what’s in store:
Over 50 pieces of client artwork will be on sale with proceeds directly supporting McClendon Center’s work to improve the health and well-being of DC’s most vulnerable residents — those who are economically disadvantaged and struggling with mental health issues.
Tickets include light appetizers, drinks, and the opportunity to experience the impact of our work firsthand.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Art of Transformation 2024
Thursday, November 14 | 6:00-8:00 pm
📍 Studio 52 | 1508 Okie St NE, Washington, DC
This fall, immerse yourself in a showcase of original artwork created by our clients. All artwork sales will directly support McClendon Center’s work to improve the health and well-being of DC’s most vulnerable residents.
Enjoy an evening brimming with fun activities and surprises. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate creativity while connecting with our community!
Here’s what to look forward to:
Stay tuned for more details. You won’t want to miss it!
Dear Friends and Supporters,
This July has been an oppressive one for our client community–30% of whom are homeless upon intake. The recent heat wave is a stark reminder of how dangerous it is to be without housing. Extreme temperatures are dangerous for everyone, but they’re especially scary for individuals living outside in tents and encampments.
Another deeply concerning issue facing our community is the recent Supreme Court ruling on homelessness, which allows cities to penalize individuals for sleeping in public spaces. Instead of addressing the systemic issues contributing to homelessness, the ruling criminalizes the most vulnerable among us who are just trying to survive. This is unacceptable.
Read on to learn more about how we can stand up for the rights of our unhoused neighbors.
On a more positive note, July is also Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, a time for raising awareness about the struggles faced by marginalized communities in accessing mental health care. The disparity is real, which is why we’re committed to providing culturally competent care that meets people where they are.
Our popular Dance-Movement Therapy program, featured in these pages, is an example of how we engage our community in activities of their choosing that motivate and inspire them to be their best selves. The Day Program also had a cookout recently in recognition of July 4th, which put a smile on everyone’s faces and hot meal in their bellies.
No matter what challenges lay ahead, we can ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community if we stick together. Thank you for your continued support of the McClendon Center family.
Warm regards,
Sheandinita Dyson
CEO, McClendon Center
EIN #: 20-0108493
CFC #: 64382
Core Services
(202) 745-0073
Day Program
(202) 737-6191
General Inquiries:
info@mcclendoncenter.org
Medical Records:
records@mcclendoncenter.org
Day Program Referrals:
DayProgramReferrals@mcclendoncenter.org