A GOC Member and staff had the pleasure of meeting up with Dr. George Shorter at the VA Medical Center, where he hosts a coffee social every Wednesday starting at 9am. These gatherings feature live music and heartfelt conversations with veterans about the challenges of mental illness and the power of recovery.

By working with Dr. Shorter and his amazing team, we’re continuing to strengthen our shared goal of helping veterans (as well as non veterans) achieve great outcomes in their recovery journeys.

In this photo, Marcello is proudly holding a piece of the Berlin Wall, taken down by one of Dr. Shorter’s group members—a powerful symbol of breaking barriers and building new beginnings.

We’re also thrilled to share that Marcello has just secured employment at McDonald’s! He continues to be an ambassador for the Gainesville Opportunity Center, showing what’s possible when community, support, and opportunity come together.

Lutheran Services FloridaVeterans Health Administration (VHA) – U.S. Department of Veterans AffairsFlorida Department of Children and Families