JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Three remarkable Missourians who have overcome mental health challenges will be celebrated on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at the Mental Health Champions’ Banquet hosted by the Missouri Mental Health Foundation (MMHF). The event will take place at the Capital Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City and recognize the following Champions: Roger Koch of Joplin, Alfred Long, Sr., of St. Louis, and Duane Gruis of Florissant. MMHF will also present a “Lasting Legacy” award at the banquet to former U.S. Senator Roy Blunt for his national advocacy of mental health initiatives.
“These individual Champions have meaningful roles in their communities and promote the importance of self-determination, recovery, and education about mental health,” said Katie Andrews, Executive Director of MMHF. “Their personal stories and accomplishments are inspiring.”
Roger Koch
Roger Koch is an extraordinary advocate for mental health. During his 20-year military career he faced many challenges including active combat and then returned home with symptoms of PTSD. After years of trying to manage his PTSD himself, he eventually reached out for help. Today, he is the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) overseeing the Ozark Center’s Veteran Integration Program (VIP). Roger has profoundly impacted the lives of countless veterans across Southwest Missouri. He 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.
Alfred Long, Sr.
Alfred Long’s transformative journey is an inspiration to others. Alfred struggled with addiction at the age of 12 but is grateful to have overcome that addiction and has now been sober for more than 24 years. He has taken his experience to inspire others and help them overcome similar challenges. Alfred continues to devote countless hours to leading recovery sessions, offering counsel and supporting others through his nonprofit, Jacob’s Ladder Ministries. He has authored three books, and exemplifies resilience and service, inspiring hope and change in the lives of countless individuals. His work stands as a testament to the power of recovery, compassion and community.
Duane Gruis
Duane Gruis empowers, transforms and advocates for the lives of individuals with disabilities. Born with cerebral palsy, he has experienced firsthand many of the struggles and barriers. Duane is currently a member of UCP Heartland’s Family Navigator and Client Support team where he works tirelessly to promote accessibility, inclusion and self-advocacy. Whether Duane is mentoring clients, speaking at public events or engaging with lawmakers, his dedication and passion are evident in every initiative he undertakes. Duane’s goal is to continue to empower individuals with disabilities to take control of their lives, advocate for their needs, and actively participate in their communities.
Lasting Legacy – U.S. Senator Roy Blunt
U.S. Senator Roy Blunt represented Missouri for 12 years in the U.S. Senate and 14 years in the U.S. House of Representatives. He has the distinction of being one of only two Americans in congressional history to be elected to leadership positions by his colleagues in both the House and the Senate. In the Senate, Blunt led the Presidential Inaugural Committees for the 45th and 46th Presidents of the United States and championed record increases for health research and mental health access. Blunt was pivotal to the expansion of behavioral health services across the nation including the Excellence in Mental Health Act and the Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers model of care. MMHF is pleased to celebrate his Lasting Legacy.