Meet Our Dedicated Leadership
Tammy Underwood
Director of Development
With over 13 years of experience in HR and workforce development, including regional program operations, Registered Apprenticeships, and National Field Support, Tammy brings a collaborative approach to connecting people with life-changing opportunities.
Her background includes managing multi-site operations, overseeing compliance, and implementing innovative training models that support underrepresented and justice-involved populations in North and South Carolina, Kentucky, and New York City. Tammy is known for her ability to foster collaboration across education, workforce, and nonprofit sectors to create lasting impact at both the individual and community levels.
She holds a Master’s degree in Human Services, is a Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP), and is a certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR). Tammy resides in Shallotte with her husband, Todd, and their dog, Vinny.
Tammy Underwood
Director of Development
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Kaci Torbich
Brand Strategist
Kaci Torbich joined Christian Recovery Centers in May 2020 and serves as the Brand Strategist. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the Cameron School of Business at UNC Wilmington, Kaci brings a strong foundation in business principles to her role. As a proud veteran and mother, she leverages her disciplined background to ensure consistent and impactful branding across all forward-facing platforms. Her strategic oversight maintains brand integrity while effectively reaching potential clients, donors, and volunteers. Kaci's dedication results in over 15 million impressions annually, leaving a lasting impact in both digital and print mediums.
Kaci Torbich
Brand Strategist
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Rick Kline
Major Gifts Officer
Rick Kline joined Christian Recovery Centers, Inc. as the Major Gifts Officer in
November 2024. In this role, Rick prides himself in building relationships with potential
supporters of CRCI residents and programs. He works closely with the CRCI
Leadership Team to establish business strategies, plan outreach activities, and provide
outstanding stewardship to CRCI philanthropic supporters.
After 15+ years as a fundraiser for the Texas A&M Foundation and at Lehigh University,
Rick "retired" to Brunswick County in 2022. Shortly after moving, he migrated to a
volunteer role at CRCI serving as a consultant to the Development Office and as a
Development Advisory Committee member. After two years, he was invited to join the
Development Office in his current role. Rick is driven by his passion to support CRCI’s
mission of providing long-term recovery for those struggling with the illness of addiction.
Rick Kline
Major Gifts Officer
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Jessica White
Jessica White is the Community Relations Specialist at CRCI. Originally from New Jersey, she made North Carolina her home turf in February 2022. She joined the CRCI team after graduating from The Rose House in 2023. Entering Phase 4 of recovery marked a new beginning, igniting her passion for nonprofit work and community outreach.
With a Bachelor of Science from Temple University and over a decade of experience in hospitality, Jessica brings a strong background in catering, event planning, and venue management. She now uses those skills to lead events, support fundraising efforts, and build lasting partnerships.
Known for her warmth and authenticity, Jessica plays a vital role in engaging donors, volunteers, and local organizations. She is driven by purpose, using her journey in sobriety to help expand CRCI’s mission and serve others with compassion.
Rooted in faith, service, and recovery, she approaches her work with heart and dedication. As she often reflects, “We can’t become what we need to be by remaining what we are.”
Jessica White
Development & Events Coordinator
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Susan Freeman
Susan Freeman serves as the Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator for Christian Recovery Centers, where she focuses on building relationships and connecting the community to the mission of recovery.
With over 20 years of experience in the Chamber of Commerce world, supporting community growth and small businesses, Susan brings a strong foundation in outreach, engagement, and relationship-building. This made for a natural transition into nonprofit work, where she continues to focus on creating meaningful connections that make an impact.
Susan is a graduate of the Institute for Organization Management (IOM), giving her a deeper understanding of how nonprofits operate and how to effectively communicate their story. She is passionate about bringing people together, strengthening partnerships, and helping others find purpose through service.
Susan Freeman
Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Brenda Tompkins
Director of Finance
Brenda Tompkins is the Finance Director of Christian Recovery Centers, Inc. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.
With over 25 years of global financial reporting experience, Brenda has held senior-level managerial roles and controller positions. Directly responsible for the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for the American divisions of multiple international organizations.
Brenda's personal experience with addiction, through friends and family who struggled with this illness, as well as witnessing firsthand the transformative work of CRCI, inspired her to transition from her corporate career. She felt called to contribute her financial skills and passion to this Christian organization and feels blessed to be a part of the team making a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with addiction.
Brenda Tompkins
Director of Finance
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Jason Gaver
Director of Mission Advancement
Jason Gaver is the Director of Mission Advancement at Christian Recovery Centers, Inc. He also serves as Vice Chairman of the NOVANT Brunswick Medical Center Board of Directors, Advisor to the Veterans Creative Arts Program, and has held numerous other leadership positions at the local, State, and National level across the private and public sectors. Jason earned a B.S. and M.S. in Management from Johns Hopkins University.
He brings a strong history of entrepreneurship, corporate success, and non‑profit leadership, along with a deep commitment to community engagement and service. Jason’s background includes building and scaling organizations, strengthening operational systems, and cultivating strategic partnerships across diverse sectors. His experience working with veterans, healthcare leaders, and community stakeholders gives him a unique ability to bridge mission, innovation, and impact—making him a valuable asset to the team at CRCI.
Jason is a proud military veteran who served primarily in the United States Navy over 9 years deploying all over the globe with several branches and coalition partners in support of multiple operations. One of his most meaningful ways to serve is connecting with and supporting other disabled veterans as they navigate the civilian world and strive to be the best version of themselves.
He is always accompanied by his service dog WOODROW, the bestest boy. WOODROW welcomes the opportunity to meet you and receive all the pets.
Jason is motivated to serve others as Christ did and thanks God everyday for the continued opportunity to positively impact others in our community. Outside of work you will find him spending time with his beautiful daughter Eleanor.
Jason Gaver
Director of Mission Advancement
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Karli Maness
Executive Assistant
Karli serves as Executive Assistant at Christian Recovery Centers, Inc., where she provides administrative and operational support to executive leadership and assists with organizational communication, coordination, and internal operations. In her role, she supports projects and initiatives across multiple departments while helping maintain efficient day-to-day operations.
Karli first came to CRCI in March 2021 as a resident in the recovery program. After graduating from the program, she chose to remain with the organization and has since served in several roles across thrift operations, administration, and human resources. Her experience working within multiple areas of CRCI has provided her with a broad understanding of the organization’s programs, operations, and mission.
She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree at East Carolina University, majoring in Business with a concentration in Human Resource Management. Karli is passionate about organizational development, effective communication, and supporting systems that help both employees and leadership operate more efficiently.
Outside of work, Karli enjoys spending time with her husband, Colton, and their five animals.
Karli Maness
Executive Assistant
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
James Imler
Director of Human Resources
James Imler serves as the HR Director for Christian Recovery Centers, Inc. He has over 10 years of HR experience, working in multiple specialties within the public sector. Prior to joining CRCI, he worked at various federal agencies, including the Department of War (formerly Defense) and the now‑closed Agency for International Development.
James works with executive leadership to develop and uphold the rules, policies, and procedures that strengthen CRCI’s workforce. He plays a key role in shaping a positive employee experience, supporting staff development, and ensuring that CRCI’s HR practices grow alongside the organization. His work helps create a stable, supportive environment where employees can thrive and continue advancing CRCI’s mission.
Originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, James moved to South Carolina in the fall of 2023. He now resides in Little River with his wife, Samantha, and enjoys reading in his free time.
James Imler
Director of Human Resources
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Tyler Smith
Chief Operating Officer
Tyler Smith serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Christian Recovery Centers, Inc. (CRCI), where he oversees operations, including all direct care staff, program admissions, residential facilities, and community partnerships. With nearly a decade of experience in the field of addiction recovery, Tyler has a proven track record in program development, counseling, and administrative leadership. His military background brings a strong sense of structure and discipline to his work, which has been vital to the success of his role as it impacts CRCI's greater mission.
With Tyler’s direct support, CRCI has grown significantly, expanding from just 14 beds to over 217 beds across multiple campuses. He holds a Bachelor of Religious Arts in Pastoral Psychology and has earned certifications such as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (Registered) and a NC Certified Peer Support Specialist.
A seasoned public speaker and instructor, Tyler has shared his expertise as the ministry leader at Celebrate Recovery in Ocean Isle Beach and as an instructor for Brunswick Community College, teaching courses in human resource development, employability, and digital literacy. His passion lies in developing individual potential, building efficient systems, and inspiring hope for lasting change in those he serves.
Tyler Smith, CPSS
Chief Operating Officer
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Jerry Williams
Director of Facilities Management
Jerry serves as Director of Facilities Management. In his role he oversees property maintenance, vehicle maintenance, the food program, procurement and acts as our safety officer.
Jerry brings more than 25 years of experience in risk management, public safety, emergency response, and hazardous materials operations. Throughout his career, Jerry has worked extensively in emergency preparedness, incident management, and disaster response, developing a strong reputation for leadership and practical field expertise.
Jerry has completed and taught advanced terrorism and emergency response training through the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Center for Domestic Preparedness. His specialized training includes participation in the COBRA – Chemical Ordnance, Biological, and Radiological Training Facility, where first responders train in realistic environments to prepare for chemical, biological, and radiological incidents.
Jerry and his wife Jennifer, served as Pastors/Corps Officer with The Salvation Army, where they provided leadership in community ministry. During their service, they operated emergency shelters in Mississippi and Louisiana, supporting communities affected by homelessness and ensuring safe refuge and assistance for those in need.
In addition to his professional and ministry work, Jerry believes that recovery is a journey that includes overcoming addiction through faith, perseverance, and the grace of God. His experience in recovery has strengthened his compassion for others and deepened his commitment to helping people find hope, restoration, and a renewed path forward. Through both service and testimony, he strives to encourage others that lasting recovery and transformation are possible with faith and support.
Jerry Williams
Director of Facilities
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Paul Wilkins
Regional Director
Paul is the CRCI Regional Director of our New London campus. He was raised in southern Michigan and brings 20 years of management experience, much of it in the pharmaceutical and automotive industries. He has been an ordained pastor for more than 10 years and has been involved in faith‑based nonprofit recovery for 20 years, beginning with his own recovery journey.
While volunteering at an inner‑city organization that included a free medical clinic and treatment services, Paul and his wife launched a program for teenagers who had addiction in their households and were at high risk of repeating that pattern. They led this program for many years. Later, Paul became a charter member of a new church plant focused on recovery and meeting the needs of individuals struggling with addiction by first removing stigma and barriers. More than 14 years later, this church continues to serve that mission.
During this time, Paul felt called to Stanly County to establish a faith‑based inpatient treatment and recovery program. That vision was ultimately fulfilled through the establishment of CRCI in Stanly County.
Paul is passionate about CRCI’s work and believes the organization is a leader in the treatment and recovery community by embracing both faith and science. He has witnessed the benefits of this holistic approach and values that the foundations of both were created by God. He looks forward to the growth and development ahead for CRCI as we continue to increase in both reach and effectiveness.
Paul and his wife, Sarah, have two adult children and two grandbabies they adore. They enjoy outdoor activities, especially in the mountains of North Carolina.
Paul Wilkins
Regional Director
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Eric Machado
Program Director
As Program Director of Christian Recovery Centers - Grant's Harbor, Eric brings both professional expertise and lived experience to his leadership. As graduate of CRCI’s program, his journey from resident to director fuels his commitment to the ministry’s mission. Eric is grateful for the mentors, family members, and supporters who walked with him, and he carries that same spirit of encouragement into his work each day.
Eric has worked diligently to advance his training, earning his Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Peer Support Specialist credentials. He is now completing his Bachelor of Religious Arts in Pastoral Psychology from West Theological Seminary, which will prepare him to serve residents with both clinical skill and pastoral insight.
To those who feel hopeless or alone in addiction, Eric offers a message rooted in his own story: he has been where they are, and he will fight for them. As long as he serves in this role, he is committed to ensuring CRCI continues to open its arms to every individual and family in need of restoration.
Eric Machado
Program Director
Grant's Harbor, Men's Program
Ashley Kidwell
Program Director
Ashley Kidwell serves as the Program Director at Christian Recovery Centers inc. - The Rose House where she supports and encourages the spirituality and sobriety of the women she has been called to serve. In September 2017, Ashley ended her decade long addiction to drugs to begin her journey into motherhood sober and in recovery. In 2023, she completed her four year bachelors program summa cum laude, and became a SHRM Certified HR professional. This academic accomplishment opened the door for her to start her career at CRCI where she now has alcohol and drug counselor and peer support specialist credentials. Using her lived experience, professional experience, and credentials, Ashley dedicates her attention and love to guiding other women toward a life of sobriety and sustainability, encouraging their personal and professional growth.
Ashley Kidwell
Program Director
Rose House, Women's Program
Jacob Starr
Chaplain
Jacob Starr serves as chaplain and teaches theology classes at both the Grant's Harbor and the Rose House. Under his guidance, he assists residents in obtaining their associate's degree in theology through West Theological Seminary. He considers it a privilege to serve the men and women in his chaplaincy role and finds daily inspiration in the impact he has on their lives. He attributes the many blessings he receives to his Heavenly Father and feels honored to serve in this capacity.
Dr. Jacob Starr
Chaplain
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Mike Guzman
Business Director
Mike Guzman joined Christian Recovery Centers in March of 2023, serving as Business Director of the Workforce Redevelopment Programs.
A native of Rochester, NY he has held a number of senior leadership positions in Banking, Finance, and Operations. Mike holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from St. John Fisher University in Rochester, NY. In addition, he holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Economics from the Babcock Graduate School of Management at Wake Forest University. He has a breadth of experience from managing asset pools eclipsing $3B in original cost, working in syndicated loan trading at Bank of America, and serving as a Senior Financial Analyst at Newell Rubbermaid covering both consumer and commercial product lines.
With a passion for building powerful teams and developing and implementing strategic plans achieving high levels of growth, Mike is focused on leveraging a 2+ decade career of success coupled with life experience in order to help CRCI reach a new stage of prosperity. Mike’s goal is to help grow the ministry by intelligently and compassionately investing in people. In his spare time Mike enjoys offshore fishing, exploring the world and spending time with his wife Jessica.
Mike Guzman
Chief Workforce Development Officer
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Jonathan Howard
Landscaping Service Manager
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Richard Kirk
Cleaning Service Manager
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Josh Torbich
Executive Director
Joshua Torbich is the CEO of Christian Recovery Centers, Inc. He also serves as the Chairman of the Brunswick County Opioid Task force. He is also the President of the Bluegrass District of the national networking group, Citygate. He holds a master's degree in education with an emphasis on Business management and Christian Leadership.
Josh’s ambitious and creative approach has played a major role in assisting Christian Recovery Centers, Inc in becoming a significant resource in the Carolinas. Under Josh’s leadership this agency has been able to go from serving 12 individuals in a single location to serving more than 200 individuals with no cost residential treatment, recovery, and re-entry services. His efforts in creating an innovative approach to SUD treatment and Recovery that incorporates the strengths of Faith and Science has helped thousands move from a place of suffering into a place of overall well-being.
In 2013 Josh found his life out of control due to a horrible alcohol and heroin addiction. He had reached a place in his life where he had little to no resources and was left with only the option of exploring whatever free resources would be made available to him.
As a recovered opioid user and alcoholic Josh often brings in his own personal recovery experience to his other list of attributes. He is considered an expert in his field and is often called upon by traditional educational institutions and community groups to assist in education and to help raise awareness. As an ordained minister Josh can often be found filling pulpits all across the country on Sunday mornings sharing a message of God's goodness, hope, and restoration.
He has made it his mission to reach people who have been ravaged by the illness of addiction and show them a new path to freedom. Creating opportunities for others to receive a new hope for the future is what drives him.
Josh Torbich, MA
CEO
Christian Recovery Centers Inc.
Meet Our Board of Directors
These fiduciaries are bold, sound, and knowledgeable about the best resources to advance our mission.
Laura Trueman
Board Chair
Southport, NC
Debbie Wood
Vice Chair
Southport, NC
Robert Benedict
Treasurer
Bolivia, NC
Bill Craft
Secretary
Oak Island, NC
Heath Guyton
Conway, SC
John Chase
Shallotte, NC
Robin Potter
Southport, NC
John Henry Culp
Richfield, NC
Benjamin Lisk
Albemarle, NC