Minnesota Recovery: Veterans Find Relief Through Peer Support

Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge operates a recovery center in Minneapolis designed to assist service members battling substance use disorders. The organization runs several distinct programs, with the Veterans Recovery Pathway serving as a key initiative for those seeking help with alcohol and drug addiction.

The program connects veterans with peers who have navigated similar challenges. Robbie Koockogey leads a support group that meets every Thursday in Minneapolis. He told KSTP that sharing his personal history of struggle helps motivate the other men in the room. "As I have gone through the same struggles, I believe sharing those struggles and showing my road to success while I’m with the veterans every Thursday is a motivating factor for them," Koockogey said.

Participants report tangible changes in their daily lives after joining the therapy sessions. Robert, a former Army soldier, noted that professional counseling helped him connect his post-traumatic stress disorder with his drinking habits. He explained that the therapy clarified why he previously turned to alcohol to escape his problems. "I actually started seeing a therapist for the first time, you know, and that’s helped me with my PTSD and stuff like that," Robert said.

Alex, who served five years in the Navy, described a marked improvement in his physical and mental state. He said his life now differs significantly from how it appeared last summer. He highlighted better sleep and reduced anxiety as primary indicators of his progress. "I sleep at night. For me, that’s a huge deal," Alex said, adding that he has found a sense of contentment.

KSTP is featuring the organization as part of its annual #whywegive initiative, which uses public service announcements to showcase local charities. Anchor Leah McLean noted that the group works to make hope accessible to Minnesotans struggling with addiction.