Roger Koch, a certified peer support specialist and US Army Veteran from Ozark Center’s Veteran Integration Program (VIP), is receiving the Mental Health Champion award this year!
Missouri Mental Health Champions are individuals who make positive contributions to their community, exemplify commitment and vision, and whose actions have increased the potential for independence in others with similar mental health conditions. More information about the event here: https://www.missourimhf.org/mental-health-champions/
Roger Charles Koch, an extraordinary advocate for mental health, faced the challenges of military service and returned home with symptoms of PTSD after serving in the U.S. Army from 1985 to 2005. From experiences throughout his 20-year career, such as seeing active combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom in Baghdad, Iraq, tackling his struggle with mental health was not an easy journey after coming home. After 14 years of retirement from the military while struggling with PTSD, Roger sought assistance and began his transformative journey — not only for himself but for the veterans he now serves.
As the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) overseeing the Ozark Center’s Veteran Integration Program (VIP) since 2018, Roger has profoundly impacted the lives of countless veterans across Southwest Missouri. He created a comprehensive directory of veteran resources and has acted as a liaison between community organizations and state agencies to address healthcare, housing and employment needs. His ability to empathize with veterans’ reluctance to seek help, shaped by his own experiences, allows him to effectively break down barriers to recovery and foster trust within the community. In addition to his community-level work, Roger has represented veterans’ interests on state and national platforms — from lobbying with Missouri legislators to traveling to Washington, D.C. to advocate for veteran policies. His media appearances on television and radio, including discussions on PTSD, suicide prevention and stigma reduction have educated the public and amplified the voices of veterans.
Through all his efforts, Roger demonstrates a unique combination of competence, humility and authenticity. By openly sharing his own mental health journey, he provides hope and encouragement to those facing similar struggles. His tireless work ensures that veterans feel seen, supported and empowered to pursue recovery. Roger’s contributions have not only transformed the lives of individual veterans but have also strengthened the broader mental health and support networks across Missouri.
If you’re interested in more information about Ozark Center’s VIP program, here is a link: https://freemanhealth.com/ozarkcenter/specialty/services-for-veterans
