Leading with Heart: SouthLight’s Board of Directors
Meet some of the people behind the mission.
SouthLight brings hope to people who want a shot at a second chance and a better life. —Monte Montague, SouthLight Board Member
Monte’s sentiment is shared across our Board of Directors, community leaders who bring their hearts, expertise, and lived experiences to guide SouthLight’s mission.
Together, they’re helping us reach more people in need of mental health and substance use care—and ensuring that hope, dignity, and recovery remain within reach for everyone. We recently posed a few questions to some of our Board, asking them how they came to be involved with SouthLight, what have they learned about us that they didn’t know, and what is the value they see in our service to the communities we serve…
Thanks to the following board members for their thoughtful replies:
Ted Pauling
HR Director – North Carolina Medical Board
Audrey Loder
President & Co-Owner – Wilkinson Supply
James “Monte” Montague
CEO – F7 International Development
Joan Nelson
Retired IBM, Community Supporter
Kim Labow
Principal – Blue Beacon Strategies
George York
Principal & CEO – York Properties, Inc.
JR Shearin
Business Development Executive – VACO
Lynn Owens
Department of Communication Chair, Meredith College
How SouthLight’s Board Members Found Their Path to Service
What was it about SouthLight that led you to join the Board?
The journey to Board membership varies from person to person. For some, it’s personal. “A recovery program saved my brother after 10 years of addiction,” shares Joan. “Supporting SouthLight is a way to give other families the support that was given to us.”
“I was seeking support for a family member and a friend on the Board leaned into my life in a helpful and resourceful way,” says JR. “She later asked me to join.” Audry lost a friend to substance use and was looking for a way to honor him and serve the community.
Being of service is another recurring theme. George wanted to help people trapped by addiction. Lynn says, “I joined because I wanted to serve my community and bring light to issues that should get more attention.” Adds Kim, “My reason for joining was the opportunity to be a part of something that truly matters and that has a measurable impact.”
SouthLight’s mission and vision resonated with Ted, and Monte saw the positive things already taking place, feeling he could contribute.
The “Aha” Moments
What is something new you’ve learned about since joining the Board?
George, Audrey, and Joan all noted the mental health/addiction connection as a key insight. “Not only does SouthLight help people with substance use disorders, but we have full-service mental health care, too,” says George.
“There’s an 80% overlap of people who suffer from mental health and substance abuse,” adds Audrey, “and SouthLight takes a wraparound approach to both, providing counseling services as well.”
The healthcare side of treatment surprised Joan. “I was amazed at the extent of our medical and prescription support for those in need. The team is just incredible.”
Both Kim and Lynn expressed surprise at the widespread need. “You don’t necessarily see it every day, but the need is huge in the community,” says Kim. Lynn echoes this thought. “I didn’t realize just how big the need for services is.”
For some, it was exciting to learn about SouthLight’s locations and growth. “I didn’t know that we are active in different cities,” says Monte, upon learning about services in Fayetteville/Cumberland County, Durham, and the Wake County Justice System.
JR says he’s known SouthLight for a long time through United Way, but “In light of the tremendous need in our community, I’m excited about the growth and expansion.” Ted is excited to be involved in future plans for a Mobile Unit.
Seeing the Value in SouthLight’s Work
How do you feel SouthLight benefits the communities it serves?
George York pointed out the welcoming nature of SouthLight. “Providing comprehensive services to those in our community who need help regardless of their ability to pay.”
Safety and support came up for a few of the Board Members. “It’s a safe and supportive space for those with mental health or addiction needs,” says Joan. “You can’t put a price tag on how important that is for saving and changing lives.”
“There should not be such a stigma around mental health and substance abuse issues,” says Lynn. “Here, there’s a community that supports you.” Kim also appreciates how SouthLight is destigmatizing the issues prevalent in the community, allowing clients and their families to feel safe and heard.
Audrey sees value in how the organization “Meets people where they are with so many different programs and services, helping people not just survive but thrive.”
“The work of SouthLight is critical to the communities we serve,” summarizes JR.
Honoring the Dedication of SouthLight’s Board
The time all our Board members take to support SouthLight is something we greatly value. Their commitment, passion for the mission, and experience help make us who we are. A strong board makes for a strong organization, and we’re fortunate to have a dedicated group driving our mission.
