Joseph McComas is the Executive Director of Recovery Group of Southern West Virginia, Inc., where his leadership blends administrative expertise with deep personal commitment to recovery. Drawing on decades of professional experience in technical operations, nonprofit management, and community outreach, Joseph has guided the organization through a decade of transformative growth. Under his direction, RGSWV has evolved from two sober living homes into a dynamic network of NARR Level 3 Recovery Residences, a thriving Recovery Community Center, and, most recently, NARR Level 2 recovery apartments.
What sets Joseph apart is his lived experience with substance use and recovery, which fuels his compassion and unwavering desire to help others find hope and stability. He leads with empathy, believing that every person’s story matters. Joseph’s vision and steady hand continue to shape an organization where people are met with respect, supported in their journeys, and empowered to build new lives.
Pamela Gillenwater brings more than two decades of experience supporting individuals and families in crisis to her role as Community Relations Manager at the Logan Recovery Community Center. A certified Domestic Violence Advocate, Pamela spent 22 years with the YWCA’s Resolve Family Abuse Program, serving in roles from Court Advocate to Program Director. Her background includes supervising staff, building partnerships with local agencies, and representing West Virginia at the 2nd World Conference of Women’s Shelters in Washington, DC.
Pamela’s commitment to service extends beyond her professional work. She has volunteered at the Madison Baptist Church Food Pantry, chaired the church’s Mission Board, and served on the boards of United Way Community Services, Legal Aid of West Virginia, and the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
Driven by compassion and a belief in every person’s potential, Pamela is dedicated to building strong community connections and supporting the mission of Recovery Group of Southern West Virginia.
Christopher Baker serves as the Recovery Resources Program Director and Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS), bringing seasoned expertise to addiction recovery services. His journey began at New Beginnings Home for Men as a Recovery Coach in October 2018, after completing Recovery Coach Academy training through CCAR. In September 2020, he earned his Peer Recovery Support Specialist credentials from the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction and Prevention Professionals (WVCBAPP).
When the Recovery Group of Southern WV Inc. launched the Logan Recovery Community Center in May 2023, Christopher stepped into the role of Lead Peer Recovery Support Specialist, where he oversaw the training of recovery coaches pursuing their PRSS certification. His skill set includes specialized training in crisis intervention, motivational interviewing, case management, Recovery Ally Training, and Recovery Dynamics Instruction. He also holds certifications as a Peer Reentry Navigator and in Drivers Alert Training.
Prior to his work in recovery, Christopher served as a certified Basic Police Officer from the WV State Police Academy and worked as both a General Laborer and Correctional/Field Training Officer. This diverse background, combined with his passionate dedication to recovery support, makes him uniquely qualified to lead and strengthen our recovery resources program.
Christy Baker serves as Program Manager and Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS) at the Marjorie Oakley Home for Women, bringing both professional expertise and lived experience to her role. Her journey with the Recovery Group of Southern West Virginia began in June 2018 as an Overnight Tech at MOH, the very place that helped transform her own life.
Before finding recovery, Christy spent two decades struggling with addiction while simultaneously maintaining academic excellence at Glenville State College, where she consistently earned a place on the Dean’s List for six years. It was at the pivotal moment near her college graduation that she sought help at the Marjorie Oakley Home for Women, marking the beginning of her recovery journey.
Today, Christy’s life exemplifies the transformative power of recovery. She has rebuilt every aspect of her life—from her health and relationships to her professional path. As a Recovery Coach and Peer Recovery Support Specialist, she now leads the program where her own recovery began, using her experience to help others recognize and achieve their potential. Her personal journey from client to Program Manager stands as a powerful testament to the possibilities that recovery offers, making her uniquely qualified to guide and inspire others on their path to healing.
Ricky Broughton serves as the Program Manager and Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist at New Beginnings, bringing both professional leadership and lived experience to his role. His personal recovery journey began when he graduated from the New Beginnings Home for Men in 2019, making his current position particularly meaningful.
Before finding recovery, Ricky faced years of addiction that started with a workplace injury during his time as an underground bolter operator. What began as prescribed pain medication evolved into substance use disorder, leading to homelessness, legal troubles, and incarceration. His transformation from program graduate to Program Manager stands as a powerful testament to the possibilities of recovery.
Today, Ricky has rebuilt his life in remarkable ways. He’s a proud homeowner, enjoys a fulfilling marriage, and has restored meaningful relationships with his children and family. In his dual role at New Beginnings, he combines program oversight with peer support, using his experiences to guide others toward healing. His ability to connect with residents through shared experiences while managing program operations makes him uniquely qualified to lead and inspire those beginning their recovery journeys.
Ricky often shares that his most significant achievement in recovery is the opportunity to help others facing similar challenges, offering them hope and practical guidance. His story and leadership continue to inspire both staff and residents, demonstrating that lasting recovery is possible through dedication and support.
Additional Staff include:
Leo Bradley Copeland, Night Tech-NB
Dylan Jividen, Night Tech-NB
Verna Hill, Night Tech-MOH
Mary Runyon, Night Tech-MOH
Cristy Atwell, Night Tech-MOH