GOC representatives Brett Buell, Scott Hesch, and Rose Ann Walker recently met with City of Gainesville leadership—including City Manager Andrew Persons, HR Director Laura Graetz, and Senior Assistant City Attorney Michele Martin—to discuss a new partnership. We are exploring the creation of two Transitional Employment (TE) positions within the City to help our Members re-enter the workforce.

At the GOC, we know that mental illness can significantly interrupt a person’s career and life. But we also know that everyone wants to feel productive. By providing the right support, we can help people overcome those barriers to employment.

Why this matters for Gainesville:

Reducing High-Cost Services: Our Members are more likely to stay housed, remain employed, and receive routine medical care.

Proactive Support: We shared how the GOC works alongside resources like Co-responder police teams and Community Resource Paramedics to prevent crises before they happen.

Taxpayer Savings: Regular attendance at the GOC means fewer mental health hospitalizations and fewer interactions with law enforcement.

When people feel good about themselves and their work, they stay stable. It’s common sense: supporting mental health recovery makes our community stronger, saves taxpayer money, and—most importantly—makes lives better.

Stay tuned for updates as we head to the City Commission on March 12th!

Clubhouse International – ICCDLutheran Services FloridaFlorida Department of Children and FamiliesCity of Gainesville, FL – Government