About Us
Cliff Richards
Co-Founder, CEO and President
Cliff Richards, born and raised in Augusta, GA, has made significant contributions to the aviation and non-profit sectors. In 1988, he founded Flightline Services, Inc., an on-site military aviation restoration company to support U.S. Air Force museums across the U.S. In 2004 an exclusive collaboration with the U.S. Air Force Museum Program led to receiving the prestigious commission from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA to meticulously restore the Reagan Air Force One and the iconic Marine One helicopter.
As a result of being in long-term recovery, in 2006 he assumed the role of President/CEO of The Hale Foundation, Inc, a local 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation. Since 1990 The Hale Foundations has successfully provided a long-term residential substance use disorder program for men. Duties include the management of day-to-day operations of an 80-bed facility with a focus on business development, organizational growth, and fundraising.
In 2019 became part of the peer support team for the Georgia Office of Public Safety Support (OPSS) which provides emotional
and psychological support to first responders that have been exposed to critical or traumatic events.
Andrew Carrier, LCSW
Co- Founder, Chief Operations Officer
Andrew (Andy) Carrier served with the Georgia State Patrol for 31 years, retiring as a Captain and Director of the Office of Public Safety Support at Headquarters, Atlanta. He also served as the state’s crisis/hostage negotiations commander for over ten years. Prior to his career with GSP, he began his law enforcement journey in 1987 with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, serving there for over two years. During the latter part of Andy’s career with GSP, he was awarded a graduate research assistantship at the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government by then Governor, Nathan Deal. After earning a master’s in clinical social work, he attained licensure as a licensed master social worker, then later, as a licensed clinical/independent social worker in the states of Georgia, South Carolina, and New York, where he assists members of the public safety community involved in traumatic incidents. He has assisted first responders to the school/mass shootings at Columbine, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook, and most recently, in Uvalde, Texas in the aftermath of the Robb Elementary School Shooting. In 2019, he was appointed by Governor Brian Kemp to the Composite Board of Social Workers, Professional Counselors, and Marriage and Family Therapists. Andy holds a master’s in social work, a master’s in public administration, and a BS in criminal justice. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Session 245, and the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College at Columbus State University. Andy has been a POST certified Firearms, Emergency Vehicle Operations, and Defensive Tactics Instructor for over 25 years. He has served as clinical director at the three day Post Critical Incident Seminar (PCIS) in Georgia, South Carolina, Louisiana, and California. He is published in the Washington Examiner, the FBI National Academy Associates Magazine, the International Chiefs of Police (IACP) Police Chief Magazine, and other publications. He has also presented on various topics around the United States, Canada, and most recently, at the World Police Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Andy resides in Evans, Georgia.
Kristy Ledford, MA, LPC, CTP
Clinical Director
As a professional counselor and certified trauma professional, Kristy is deeply committed to providing specialized, evidence-based care that addresses the unique challenges faced by law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders.
A graduate of Liberty University with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Kristy brings extensive experience in trauma-informed care, addiction recovery, and mental health treatment. She previously worked in community mental health, providing outpatient substance use treatment, and later in private practice, specializing in trauma and addiction. In 2022, Kristy was awarded the Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) for Addiction Counseling through NBCC and NAADAC, completing a year-long fellowship with intensive training focused on trauma and addiction in marginalized and underserved communities. This experience reinforced her passion for addressing the complex interplay between trauma, substance use, and mental health recovery.
Driven by a deep passion for healing and a firm belief in the power of recovery, Kristy is dedicated to fostering a safe and compassionate environment where first responders can process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and reclaim their well-being. With a commitment to evidence-based interventions and a deep respect for the first responder community, Kristy is honored to walk alongside these heroes on their path to recovery. At Valor Station, she is proud to be part of a mission that prioritizes the mental health and well-being of those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
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Jennifer Sharpe RN, MA, APC
Therapist
Jennifer Sharpe is an Associate Professional Counselor dedicated to supporting first responders through evidence-based therapeutic practices. Holding a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, she brings a unique blend of clinical competence and trauma-informed care to her work.
With a background as a registered nurse (RN, BSN), Jennifer integrates medical and psychological knowledge to provide holistic, person-centered care. She holds certificates in Narrative-Focused Trauma Care through The Allender Center, which is led by Dr. Dan Allender, a pioneer of a unique and innovative approach to trauma and abuse therapy. Her approach prioritizes the power of storytelling, resilience-building, and deep healing.
Jennifer has a growing understanding of the unique challenges faced by first responders, including the psychological and emotional toll of high-stress, high-risk environments. She is committed to creating a safe, supportive space where first responders can process trauma, foster emotional well-being, and build long-term resilience.
Currently working toward full licensure as a professional counselor, Jennifer is dedicated to walking alongside those who serve their communities, offering compassionate and effective mental health support.
Outside of her professional work, she enjoys fishing, mountain biking, and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Travis W. Redd
Certified Peer Counselor
Travis Redd is a dedicated public safety veteran with over 20 years of experience serving communities across Georgia and South Carolina. He began his career in 1988 as a firefighter with the North Augusta Department of Public Safety, laying the foundation for a diverse and impactful career in law enforcement and emergency services.
Throughout his two decades of service, Travis has held key roles in several respected agencies, including the North Augusta Department of Public Safety, the Augusta Police Department, Richmond County Sheriff's Department, Augusta 911 Center, and the South Carolina Highway Patrol, where he served as a State Trooper. His commitment to professional development and training led him to become an adjunct Driving Instructor with the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, where he shared his expertise with future public safety professionals.
Travis holds an Associate's degree in Criminal Justice from Aiken Technical College and is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Management from Louisiana State University. In addition to his academic and professional achievements, he is a certified Peer Counselor through the Georgia Office of Public Safety Support, offering guidance and support to fellow first responders.
Shanique Adams
Nurse Practitioner
Shanique Adams is a Family Nurse Practitioner with 21 years of Nursing experience, and 8 as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Born and raised in the CSRA, Shanique graduated with her Associate of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2006 and 2012 respectively from (then) Augusta State University.
She received her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner in 2016 from South University. Shanique specializes in ethics and empathy and implements them in every aspect of her life. Shanique is a unique force in the workplace and uses her positive attitude and tireless energy to encourage others to work hard and succeed. Shanique is inspired daily by her children, family and community. In her free time, Shanique loves gardening, cooking and listening to true crime podcasts.
Larisa Washington
Client Services Coordinator
With over 20 years of medical administrative experience, Larisa Washington brings not only a wide range of administrative experience to her role at Valor Station, but also a unique brand of spirited support. Her history on clinical teams at Augusta University, Bluff Recovery Center, and the Augusta VA have shaped her commitment to patient outcomes and experiences. Larisa’s dedication to helping others led her to earn a Bachelor of Science in Human Services and she intends to engage in further education in the fields of sociology and psychology, pursuant to her goal of serving in the recovery community. Larisa understands the needs of First Responders as her brother is a Fire Captain at a local department.
Johnny Richards
Public Safety Outreach Coordinator
Johnny Richards is a seasoned public safety professional with more than 36 years of dedicated service across law enforcement, military, and emergency medical services. He brings a wealth of experience from municipal policing to international deployments, combining his expertise with a commitment to community well-being.
Johnny completed 29 years as a Georgia POST certified law enforcement officer, two years in the fire/EMS service, five years in the U. S. Navy, and two years in the Georgia Army National Guard. He started his law enforcement career in 1997 with the Atlanta Police Department before serving with the Gwinnett County Police Department for 20 years. He finished his law enforcement career with the Oconee County Sheriff's Office, where he worked as a deputy sheriff for three years. Johnny was deployed to Baghdad and Kirkuk, Iraq in 2008 - 2009 and Port-au-Prince, Haiti (United Nations) from 2010 - 2013. His certifications include the basic, intermediate, and advanced law enforcement certifications, school resource officer, criminal investigations, narcotics and vice investigations, senior deputy, field training officer, general instructor, firearms instructor, driving (EVOC) instructor, EMT-R, and SWAT basic and intermediate certifications. He has worked numerous years on patrol, criminal investigations, and specialized details/units. Additionally, he has 100 hours towards a Bachelor of Science in psychology. With a career spanning military service, municipal policing, management, disaster relief, and emergency medical response, his diverse background and energetic approach make him an asset to Valor Station’s commitment. Johnny understands firsthand that healing can be a success for first responders battling PTSD and trauma related problems. He understands the unique challenges and emotional toll that goes hand in hand with being a first responder.
Marshall Brown
Director of Civic & Community Development
Marshall recently concluded his career as Vice President of Investments at Stifel Nicholaus, Inc., marking an impressive 50-year journey in the field of banking and investment. Over the years, Marshall's professional expertise extended to serving on the Board of Directors for numerous esteemed organizations. However, his true passion lies with The Hale Foundation, an organization he has dedicated his time to as a board member since its establishment in 1990.
Since 1982, Marshall has proudly called Augusta his home. During his leisure time, he finds joy in pursuits such as golfing, hunting, and fishing, particularly along the scenic coast of South Carolina. Alongside his beloved wife, Dianne, Marshall cherishes their family, which includes their daughter, Mary Ashton Mills, and two grandchildren.
Deeply ingrained in their community, Marshall and Dianne actively engage as valued members of Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church, assuming leadership roles within the congregation.
Marshall retired from Stifel Nicholaus, Inc as Vice President/Investment after 50-year career in banking and Investment banking. Marshall has served on the Board of Directors of many organizations, but his passion is The Hale Foundation of which he has been a board member since its inception in 1990. Marshall has called Augusta home since 1982.
He enjoys golf, hunting and fishing, especially on the coast of S.C. He and his wife, Dianne, have one daughter, Mary Ashton Mills, and two grandchildren. Marshall and Dianne are active members of Reid Memorial Presbyterian church, where they are both in leadership positions.
Dr. Karen A. Anderson, PhD
Dr. Karen Anderson, PhD., is a 43-year veteran in law enforcement who has served in leadership in five police & corrections agencies within the state of Georgia. Throughout her career, she worked through the ranks and was promoted and appointed to the positions of sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major, assistant chief, and Interim Chief of Police. Dr. Anderson’s education consists of a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Master’s degree in Public Administration, and a Doctorate degree in Management of Organizational Leadership. Dr. Anderson’s published dissertation is titled: Anderson, K. A. (2017). Factors Influencing the Turnover Intentions of Policewomen in the State of Georgia: A Multiple Regression Analysis. She is currently employed by the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office as the Grants Manager. Additionally, Dr. Anderson is a peer grant reviewer for the Bureau of Justice Administration, and through her grant writing expertise she has aided law enforcement agencies with being awarded millions of dollars in grant funding.
As an entrepreneur, Dr. Anderson, PhD is the CEO of Dr. A's Law Enforcement Consulting and Grant Writing, LLC. She consults with law enforcement agencies and provides professional grant writing services to law enforcement and the community. As a law enforcement consultant and grant writer, Dr. Anderson collaborates with and provides services to Sampson Testing & Training (law enforcement psychological services) and Valor Station (First Responder Treatment Facility in Augusta); among other agencies. In addition, Dr. Anderson shares vast knowledge about law enforcement and grant writing at various conferences throughout the United States.
Dr. Anderson is an active member of Kelley Chapel Baptist Church, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, National Council of Negro Women, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, and the International Association of Chief’s of Police.