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. 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, New York, Wyoming, 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.
Hayden Schmidt
Head Chef
Born and raised in Albany, Georgia, Hayden Schmidt has had a deep love for cooking since his childhood. Raised on soul food and comfort dishes, he learned the art of cooking by watching, helping, and learning alongside his great-grandmother. Over the years, his passion has evolved into a desire to create innovative, flavorful dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Hayden's extensive family background in public and community service has profoundly shaped his values. His grandfather served in law enforcement, his uncle was a firefighter, and his mother worked within the Developmentally Disabled Community. This connection to service has given him a deep understanding of the challenges first responders face, and he is committed to providing support to those who dedicate their lives to helping others.
In his culinary journey, Hayden continuously strives to elevate his craft by delivering exemplary dishes and creating an unforgettable experience for every guest. He is also deeply committed to fostering a rewarding, team-oriented environment for his staff, where collaboration and excellence thrive.
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.
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.
Kenneth Jackson
Logistics Coordinator/Peer
Kenneth (Kenny) Jackson was born and raised in Augusta, GA, and graduated from Westside High School in 1988. He started working for the Augusta Fire Department in 1993 as a firefighter. Kenny was promoted to sergeant in 1997 and completed his EMT-I certification in 2007. He was promoted to lieutenant in 2013 and began working in the fire department bureau as an inspector. In 2015, Kenny moved into fire investigations as an arson investigator, where he completed his career. He retired from the Augusta-Richmond County Fire Department in July of 2025 at the rank of captain.
Having dealt with traumatic events both on and off duty throughout his career, he obtained certification as a Peer Counselor through the Georgia Office of Public Safety Support in 2021, in order to offer assistance to fellow first responders who are struggling. Kenny resides in Evans, GA, and enjoys hunting, fishing, and kayaking in his spare time.
Kaitlynn Wright
Director of Revenue Cycle Management
Kaitlynn brings extensive expertise in medical coding, billing, and operational leadership to the team. From her early work as a medical coder to her leadership role managing healthcare revenue integrity specialists, Kaitlynn cultivated deep knowledge in clinical documentation, billing procedures, coding quality, and compliance, all of which strengthen both clinical and financial performance.
Kaitlynn oversees the full revenue cycle, ensuring efficient claim processing, revenue optimization, and alignment with evolving industry standards. With a commitment to operational excellence and team development, she works closely with clinical, administrative, and executive partners to enhance financial performance while maintaining high standards of compliance and patient-centered service. Kaitlynn earned her bachelor's degree in Health Information Management and holds certifications as a registered health information administrator, certified outpatient coder and certified professional coder.
Chris Young
Counseling Intern
Christopher “Chris” Young brings nearly two decades of real-world experience, leadership, and heart to his work with first responders. Since entering law enforcement in 2008, he has developed a deep understanding of the unique pressures faced by those who serve in high-stress, high-stakes environments. His firsthand knowledge of the emotional and psychological demands placed on officers, military personnel, and their families allows him to connect with clients from a place of authenticity and shared experience.
A licensed minister since 2006, Chris has long felt called to walk alongside others during some of life’s most challenging moments. He has also served the Augusta area as a law enforcement chaplain, providing spiritual care, crisis response, and steady support to fellow officers and their families. These roles, combined with his lifelong background in construction work beginning in his teenage years, have shaped his grounded, practical, and approachable style. He understands the culture of service, hard work, and resilience that defines the first responder community.
Chris earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Faulkner University and is currently pursuing a master's degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling at the same institution. His decision to enter the counseling profession was shaped by witnessing—and personally understanding—the hardships associated with military service and first responder's life. He is passionate about bridging the gap between mental health and public safety, working to reduce stigma and make support both accessible and culturally competent.
Chris is committed to being a steady, trustworthy presence for those who spend their lives serving others. His dedication to both law enforcement and mental health is rooted in a genuine love for people and a desire to help first responders build resilience, find healing, and thrive both personally and professionally.