McClendon Center

Our Story

In the 1970s and 1980s, many individuals with mental illness were released from St. Elizabeth’s psychiatric hospital into the streets of Washington, DC, without adequate follow-up treatment or support. Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, Reverend Doctor Jack E. McClendon initiated a social outreach mission through the New York Ave. Presbyterian Church, leading to the establishment of McClendon Center in 1980. In 2003, the Center became an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, certified by the DC Department of Behavioral Health as a Specialty Provider of Rehabilitation/Day Services. Today, McClendon Center employs a whole person-centered approach to mental health treatment, addressing critical social issues such as housing and food insecurity, access to quality health care, and the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Our Impact

Every day, McClendon Center supports and empowers individuals on their journey to becoming their best selves. With over 40 years of dedicated service, the Center reaches more than 4,500 of the most vulnerable residents in the community each year, providing over 20,000 annual community support visits and delivering 1,800 meals monthly through its structured Day Program.

Why Donate?

Your generous contributions ensure that everyone in the community has access to high-quality behavioral and mental health care, medical care coordination, and essential community-based supports.

Get Involved

Join the mission to uplift those in need. Donate cryptocurrency or cash today to help McClendon Center continue its vital work in the community. Every contribution makes a difference!