Former GVRA Client Says Second Chances are Shaping Her New Narrative

Originally from the Bahamas, Kerlance Simon has been a resident of Georgia for approximately eight years. During her time in the Peach State, Kerlance admits she made some unwise decisions that dramatically changed her lifestyle. 

A resourceful individual, Kerlance completed training as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) and as a hairstylist in Florida, where she had lived since coming to the United States at age 13. Shortly after moving to Georgia, Kerlance secured employment as a CNA with a hospital near Atlanta, Georgia. While employed by the hospital, Kerlance engaged in behavior that resulted in a four-year involvement with the justice system. 

In the autumn of 2024, Kerlance was released from the justice system. She subsequently was accepted into a behavioral health treatment program at View Point Health, a public, not-for-profit behavioral health agency. The organization serves children, teens, and adults dealing with mental illness, substance abuse, and other issues. While at View Point, Kerlance received counseling and medication to treat severe depressive and anxiety disorders. 

A Second Chance---Kerlance and GVRA Map out a Plan 

“My counselor at View Point recommended GVRA,” Kerlance said. “I wanted to get back on my feet, so my counselor knew earning income would play a big part in my journey to self-sufficiency,” she explained. 

In April of 2025, Kerlance applied for services offered by GVRA. Her case was assigned to Kathryn Fox, a certified rehabilitation counselor in the Supported Employment Unit of the Lafayette, Georgia office. “Kerlance was a referral from View Point Health,” Fox stated. “She had been through a lot in the way of getting and keeping a job before receiving services from GVRA. Kerlance was determined to get a fresh start, and she persevered through obstacles by maintaining a positive attitude. With the provision of mental health medication management and psychotherapy, Kerlance was able to maintain her mental health stability,” Fox commented. 

Valerie Jones, GVRA Specialty Supervisor for Supported Employment, noted Kerlance received individual placement and supports. “Kerlance met the VR requirements for someone with the most-significant disability because of her depressive disorder and anxiety,” Jones said. “In this case, supported employment has been identified as an appropriate rehabilitation objective because she has a documented need.”

Kerlance confirmed that although her case with GVRA is now closed, she is still receiving counseling and medication management services through View Point Health.   

Kerlance is Rebuilding her Life One Haircut at a Time 

Kerlance says thanks to vocational rehabilitation and guidance, she was able to interview for positions in cosmetology. In 2025, she landed a hairstylist job with Sports Clips in Lawrenceville, Georgia. “I am so grateful to GVRA for helping me find employment. Through my counselor, Ms. Kathryn, GVRA provided vouchers for my stylist uniform, scissors, clippers, and eyeglasses. GVRA even provided funds for transportation,” she said. “I don’t have a car, so I rely on my daughter to drive me places. GVRA provided transportation funding so I could go back and forth to work!” she exclaimed. 

Kerlance is optimistic about her future. She recently accepted a hairstylist position at Great Clips, which she says is a better fit for her. She is living with her daughter in Lawrenceville and is rebuilding her life. “GVRA had such a great impact on my life. In November of this year, I will have been away from the justice system for two years, and everything is on the upswing. That is why I wanted to tell my story---to let others know it is possible to rebuild their lives after losing everything.” 

Kerlance’s Past Gives Way to a Paycheck and a Fresh Start 

When asked about her time navigating the justice system, Kerlance is reflective. “You know, I guess it is just something I had to go through. I tried to make a positive impression by telling other inmates about God,” she shared. “During that period, I realized I could do anything with God’s help. I offered as much encouragement as I could to the inmates; some of them called me the ‘Church Lady.’” 

Fox, Kerlance’s GVRA counselor, says she was impressed with the enthusiasm Kerlance exhibited during her job search. “Kerlance met with her employment specialist as needed to submit applications and attend interviews,” Fox shared. “She did not hesitate to ask questions regarding the VR process, and she submitted her documents in a timely manner. As her case was winding down, Kerlance expressed appreciation for the support she received during vocational rehabilitation.”

Kerlance says she will recommend GVRA to others. “Starting over is difficult,” she said. “I couldn’t have gotten a new beginning without GVRA. The support I received from Ms. Kathryn was transformative. She guided me through the process and made sure I understood each step. GVRA employs people who care. I don’t know what I would have done without the support I received from GVRA.”

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