Dilworth Center – Our Timeline

Dilworth Center is co-founded by Jack Harville and Ed Hoffman as a for-profit alcohol and drug treatment center, operating from a small office on East Boulevard in Charlotte.

A growing census leads to a move further down East Boulevard into a larger historic house. This becomes the Center’s home for the next 14 years.

Christina Melber is hired as Dilworth Center’s first employee. She continues to serve as Manager of Administrative Operations today.

Dilworth Center transitions to nonprofit status, strengthening its commitment to accessible treatment and long-term community service.

Charles Odell joins as interim Executive Director. He continues to lead today as CEO and President.

The Adolescent Program launches under the leadership of Wallace Godfrey, expanding the Center’s ability to support young people and their families.

Dilworth Center introduces its Professionals and Extended Care Program, serving licensed professionals such as pilots, nurses, physicians, and attorneys.

To meet growing demand, Dilworth Center moves to a larger historic building at 2240 Park Road, less than a mile from its original location.

The first Wallace Godfrey Courage to Change Luncheon is held to honor professionals who dedicate their careers to helping individuals and families facing addiction.

A 4,000-square-foot addition is completed, doubling the Center’s capacity. New group rooms, offices, and a lecture hall are added while preserving the building’s original character.

Continued growth prompts further expansion in services and staff, solidifying Dilworth Center’s role as a regional resource for recovery.

Dilworth Center launches continuing education (CEU) trainings for behavioral health professionals. The Alumni Program also expands, increasing engagement opportunities for individuals in long-term recovery.

The Christina Browning Scholarship Breakfast launches and becomes the Center’s primary fundraiser to support access to treatment.

The Adolescent Program is renamed The Saxon Boswell Adolescent Program in memory of Saxon Boswell and his family’s commitment to helping others.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dilworth Center rapidly transitions to a fully virtual treatment model. Within days, group and individual therapy sessions continue without interruption—providing consistent support and structure to patients throughout 17 months of remote care.

Dilworth Center marks its 30th anniversary, celebrating three decades of service to individuals and families throughout Charlotte and beyond.

Dilworth Center introduces outdoor experiential therapy as part of its treatment approach. The program quickly becomes a powerful tool for connection, insight, and long-term recovery support.

Equine-assisted psychotherapy becomes a featured element of Dilworth Center’s holistic treatment offerings. Patients engage in meaningful, ground-based work with horses—strengthening self-awareness, boundaries, and emotional growth in recovery.

Dilworth Center celebrates 35 years of guiding individuals and families through recovery from substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions. Built on a legacy of clinical excellence and community trust, the Center remains a key resource for lasting recovery in Charlotte and beyond.