About The Foundation

Cliff Richards
President/CEO

Cliff Richards was born and raised in Augusta Ga. Having addiction problems at an early age, a close friend suggested a 12 Step Meeting which not only changed his life but his direction and career. In 1988 founded Flightline Services, Inc, an on-site military aircraft restoration company working exclusively with the U.S. Air Force Museum programs throughout the US before retiring in 2016.

In 2007 became President/CEO of The Hale Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) Non-profit corporation operating a long-term residential substance use disorder treatment center for men, growing this 36 year old organization to serve a maximum capacity of 91 men.

Brian P. Levins
Executive Director

Born in Bennington Vermont, Brian, his parents, and his twin brother moved to North Augusta, SC in 1978 when he was seven years old. He graduated from North Augusta High School and received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina – Aiken. Brian spent nearly 30 years in the financial services industry managing credit unions, many of those years as the President/CEO and Executive Vice President.

Brian transitioned into the behavioral health industry after his own experience and personal struggle with alcoholism and addiction. His journey to recovery and living a sober lifestyle started at The Hale Foundation several years ago.

Brian lives with his wife Karen and their dog Talulah in Grovetown, GA. His passion for helping others struggling with substance use disorders, his ability to personally connect with them and their loved ones, has made his transition an easy one.

Samuel Harris
Program Director

Samuel Harris was born to Phillip and Mary Harris of Augusta, GA in 1989. He was raised and attended school in the Martinez-Evans area, graduating from Evans High School in 2007. During his formative years, Sam enjoyed pursuits in music, Boy Scouts (where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout) and time spent with friends.

Sam would go on to graduate from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in 2012 with a B.A.S in Turfgrass Management, followed by a brief career that spanned from Cape Cod, MA to Bluffton, SC. During this time, he began to struggle with substance abuse and would continue to experience setbacks for the next ten years.

Just shy of his 30th birthday, Sam became a resident of The Hale Foundation in March of 2019. During his 12 months at The Hale Foundation Sam went through a 12-Step program of recovery, learned to be responsible and accountable to himself and others, and learned what it meant to be a contributing member of society.

Sam spent nearly six years with an employer he began working for while living at The Hale Foundation before returning to The Hale Foundation as the Program Director in February 2026. Sam believes in compassion, spiritual principles, and the psychological change brought on by completion of a 12-Step program. He has a heart for service and a desire to see all the men who reside at The Hale Foundation become healthy, productive members of society.

Samuel Harris currently lives in Harlem, GA with his wife Jamie and their dog Cash. He most recently obtained a Graduate Certificate of Biblical Studies from Liberty University.

Shawn Kotch
Director of Business Development

Shawn’s journey is one of transformation and dedication, coming full circle from a graduate of our 12-month program to a vital member of our leadership team. His story reflects the profound impact of recovery and a deep commitment to making a difference.

Shawn’s connection to The Hale Foundation is deeply personal. As a graduate, he brings invaluable insight to his role, grounded in firsthand experience with the challenges faced by those we serve. His recovery journey, paired with his professional expertise, makes him a dynamic addition to our team.

With an associate degree in Business Management and a Bachelor’s in Sales, Marketing, and Branding, Shawn’s academic background provides a strong foundation for his position. His career includes serving as the owner and Chief Marketing Officer of a hospice service provider in the medical service industry, where he honed his skills in marketing and branding—skills he is now channeling to advance The Hale Foundation’s mission.

Shawn is also a devoted father to two daughters, a role that inspires his commitment to building a better future. He views his work with The Hale Foundation as more than a career—it is a calling, driven by his faith and belief in a higher purpose. His passion and dedication bring a unique perspective to our team and the vital work we do.

Shawn sees an opportunity to give back to the program that changed his life. He is eager to use his talents and experiences to support the Foundation’s growth and extend its reach to even more individuals in need of recovery and support.

Laurence Joseph Ward
Program Director
(1942-2019) Deceased

• Management of retail men’s clothing stores for 10 years.
• In patient alcohol and drug counselor at University Hospital Alcohol and Drug Unit. Worked with Sam Sibley (founder of The Hale Foundation) at University Hospital A&D Unit. 1986-1993
• Certified A&D counselor from 1988 to present.
• Continuing Care Coordinator for Willingway Hospital, Statesboro, GA. 1998- Present
• Out-patient A&D counselor for Americanworks, Augusta, GA. 2004- Present
• 6 years A&D counselor for State of Georgia.
• Trained in conducting Alcohol and Drug Interventions.