Our Team

As a peer-led and driven organization, our team is based in Middle Georgia and is dedicated to serving our local community. Meet our leadership team and board of directors. If you’re interested in getting involved with iHOPE, Inc., reach out to our team!

Our Leadership Team

  • Tarusa Stewart

    Founder, Executive Director

    In February 2015, a Recovery Symposium in Houston County had focused conversation on recovery and fostered collaborations that led to the development of iHOPE Inc, a 501c (3) recovery community organization serving Middle Georgia, Addiction Recovery Support Center.

    iHOPE is an acronym for Intentional Holistic Opportunities to Promote Empowerment. Today, Mrs. Stewart, the founder and Executive Director of iHOPE, the Advisory Team, and the Board of Directors continue the recovery movement by building peer/ally leadership and recovery partnerships that help keep people well in our communities.

    Mrs. Stewart has been a woman in long-term recovery since February 13, 2002. She is on a journey to support others in recovery by living her recovery out loud to empowering other recovery leaders in her community.
  • Demetrice Burner

    Forensic Peer Mentor Project Director

    Demetrice is a woman in long-term recovery. She has not used any mood-altering substances since June 26, 1986. Demetrice is passionate about healing and committed to spreading the message of HOPE.

    She has worked in the field of addiction since 1994. She had obtained CADC1, CAMS11, MAT, and RSP Certifications. Long-term recovery has opened a world of opportunities she never dreamed of. It has enabled her to raise her three biological children, and she is now raising three adopted children. She is passionate about recovery and committed to spreading the word of HOPE.
  • Sherise Harden

    Project Coordinator for Youth & Family Behavioral Health Services

    Sherise Harden has over 16 years of experience supporting youth and families. She brings a compassionate, trauma-informed approach rooted in her belief that healing and accountability are inextricably linked. Inspired by her own lived experiences and her passion for helping individuals rewrite their stories, Sherise is committed to empowering young people and strengthening families across Middle Georgia. Her work focuses on creating safe, culturally responsive spaces where hope, resilience, and restoration can flourish.
  • Brionne Gibson

    Director of Accounting and Administration

    Brionne is has over seven years of experience in public accounting. She holds a bachelor's degree in accounting and a master's degree in business management. Guided by her passion for helping others and shaped through lived experiences, Brionne is committed to leveraging her professional expertise to support individuals and communities in meaningful ways.

Our Board of Directors

  • Adria Kitchens

    Board Member/Treasurer

  • Jason E. McClendon

    Board Member

  • Willie May

    Board Member

  • Dorothy Lowe

    Board Member