Melissa is the most recent addition to the Centenary Community Ministries, Inc. staff. She holds postgraduate degrees in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Music from Wesleyan College and Mercer University, and holds professional certifications in both Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Ethical & Inclusive Leadership. Melissa previously worked as a substance abuse counselor in middle Georgia and has since worked in higher education as an adjunct and higher education administrator. She and her husband, Cannon, are longtime members of the Macon Methodist community and are passionate advocates for authentic and sustainable community development.

Don Wilkinson is a Georgia and National Certified Level II Addiction Counselor. Don works closely in groups and one-on-one with the residents in CCMI’s transitional housing program. Don is a skilled counselor and group facilitator with particular expertise in family dynamics in addiction and codependency. He is a highly respected addictions counselor in middle Georgia and has more than thirty years of sobriety himself. The residents of the transitional housing program affectionally refer to him “Papa Don.”

James Smith is an administrative coordinator for the transitional housing program. James has a wealth of experience and skills that he brings to his work with the men in the program. While working full time as an indispensable member of CCMI’s treatment team, he is also attending Mercer University.

Originally from Warner Robins, GA, Cassie is a recent graduate from Wesleyan College and holds a degree in Religious Studies. Cassie served as CCMI’s Community Ministry Intern in the Spring of 2022 and worked on several projects including revamping our social media strategies, planning future co-ops, and assisting with service initiatives. Additionally, Cassie worked in children and youth ministry with Centenary Church and feels called to continue serving our faith community as our Re-Cycle Macon coordinator. In Fall 2022, Cassie will serve as Ministry Coordinator for Wesley Foundation of Macon.

William loves being outdoors and has always had a natural “green thumb.” William is responsible for ensuring the community garden is maintained and accessible for everyone who has a plot in the garden. More importantly, William cares for CCMI’s plots, the harvest of which is donated to Dempsey Apartments. This is a wonderful ministry that helps subsidize food expenses for a handful of elderly residents living on a small, fixed income.