PRESS RELEASE: River Edge Behavioral Health Opens Adult Peer Support and Community Integration Center

MACON, GA —River Edge Behavioral Health officially opened the doors of its new Adult Peer Support and Community Integration Center with a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The event underscored the partnerships behind the project and the community’s commitment to strengthening behavioral health and intellectual and developmental disabilities services in Middle Georgia.

River Edge extends sincere appreciation to the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities for its vital partnership in expanding peer-led recovery services and creating safe spaces for individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges, substance use disorders, and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The presence of Macon-Bibb County Government leadership highlighted the County’s commitment to improving behavioral health access and strengthening community-based recovery resources. River Edge is grateful for this longstanding partnership and support for projects that enhance public health and stability.

The center came to life thanks to River Edge’s skilled project partners:

• Azar+Walsh Architects, for a thoughtful and inclusive design that creates a warm and welcoming environment.
• Stafford Builders & Consultants, Inc., for collaborating on the project from concept to completion with efficiency and care.
• Sheridan Construction, for ensuring a high-quality and durable space built to serve the community for years to come.

During the celebration, Allen Morgan, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, remarked, “People drive by River Edge facilities, particularly these recent ones, and see that name and they know that the people getting services and the people providing those are not just here, but they are proud to be part of the community.”

Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller added, “This is what happens when people come together for a common purpose. I couldn’t be happier to be part of the team.”

In addressing the individuals who would be receiving services at the new facility, River Edge Behavioral Health Chief Executive Officer, Cass Hatcher said, “This is your home. This is your building. Take it with love. Take it with care….and we hope you come out better each day you go in.”

Attendees toured the new center’s group rooms, wellness spaces, and art and music areas—each designed to provide belonging, connection, and opportunity. The center will offer:

• Peer-led recovery groups.
• Life skills and community integration classes.
• Supportive mental health check-ins.
• Resource navigation to additional River Edge services and those of other community partners.

River Edge Behavioral Health extends heartfelt gratitude to its project team and the many community members who came to celebrate the opening of the Adult Peer Support and Community Integration Center at 2016 Ingleside Avenue in the historic Pleasant Hill neighborhood of Macon, Georgia.

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About River Edge Behavioral Health: The full continuum of River Edge Behavioral Health services provides state-of-the-art treatment and supports for children, youth, families, and adults who experience mental illness, addiction, co-occurring disorders or intellectual or developmental disabilities. River Edge services extend throughout Georgia, including Baldwin, Crawford, Houston, Jones, Macon-Bibb, Monroe, Peach, Putnam, Twiggs, Wilkinson and Fulton counties. Learn more at www.river-edge.org. For help, call 478-803-7600.

For media inquiries, please contact: Jen Holbrook: jholbrook@river-edge.org | 478-803-7707