By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
OZARK —Building on its mission to connect individuals and families with critical support services, the Roberta Rose Community and Family Support Organization is working to establish a new initiative aimed at providing free mental health services to Ozark’s first responders.
The organization currently helps connect residents with mental health and human services and, when possible, covers the cost of those services. By partnering with other agencies, the foundation works to gather resources and information to ensure individuals can access the help they need.
Now, leaders are expanding that mission to also focus on the mental health needs of our first responders.
According to Jason Varney, the organization is collaborating with the Ozark Counseling Center and city officials to develop an Emergency Mental Health Counseling Response Team. The program is designed to help first responders process and cope with the traumatic and often chaotic situations they encounter on the job.
“These situations can be heartbreaking or traumatizing,” Varney said. “We want to make sure the people who are there for us in our worst moments have the support they need to work through what they experience.”
The proposed response team would provide immediate and ongoing mental health support at no cost to first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and sheriff’s deputies. Organizers say removing financial barriers is key to ensuring those in need feel comfortable seeking help.
However, bringing the initiative to life will require strong community backing.
“To accomplish this mission, we will be accepting donations and sponsorships,” Varney said. “All funds will go directly to mental health response services.”
The effort was announced at a recent ceremony held on March 14 at Ozark Fire Station 3, where the Roberta Rose Foundation and Explicit Customs Car Club honored local first responders for their service and dedication. Representatives from the Ozark Police Department, Ozark Fire Department, Ozark EMS, and the Dale County Sheriff’s Office were recognized during the event.
During his remarks at the ceremony, Varney emphasized that while public recognition is important, ongoing support is essential.
“We have seen the work you do, not just when the cameras are on, but in the quiet, difficult moments that define true service,” he said.
Organizers say the new mental health initiative is a natural extension of that message—moving beyond appreciation and toward tangible support for those who regularly face high-stress and emotionally taxing situations.
Community members who wish to contribute to the effort can make tax-deductible donations to the Roberta Rose Community and Family Support Organization by mailing them to 1518 East Andrews Avenue, Suite D, Ozark, AL 36360, or delivering them in person Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donations may also be sent via Cash App at $RRCFS, with tax receipts available upon request.
For more information, individuals may contact Jason Varney at 334-733-4925.
As planning continues, organizers say the initiative represents a broader commitment to strengthening the community by ensuring first responders are not only recognized for their service but also supported in their well-being.
