Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation Welcomes Jerrod Combs as Program Coordinator 

COLUMBUS (OH) – The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) welcomes Jerrod Combs as its new Program Coordinator, bringing a passion for serving veterans, first responders, agricultural communities, and outdoor enthusiasts through meaningful mental health outreach. 

A native of Massillon, Ohio, Jerrod joins OSPF with a longstanding commitment to suicide prevention and community engagement. As a former U.S. Army medic, he partnered with the Life Side Ohio campaign while working at a local outdoor supply retailer, where he distributed mental health resources, hosted trainings, and supported local coalitions with firearm safety and secure storage education. 

“I was driven to join OSPF because of my experiences with suicide among soldiers and veterans,” he said. “As a U.S. Army veteran, I experienced my own mental health journey after returning from Afghanistan and transitioning to civilian life. I also lost five fellow soldiers I deployed with to suicide, both during and after their military service. Those experiences continue to motivate me to encourage and inspire anyone going through difficult times.” 

In his role, Jerrod will support and expand the reach of OSPF, Life Side Ohio, and Man Therapy through community events, partnerships, and outreach across Ohio. He will focus on strengthening support for veterans, first responders, agricultural communities, and outdoor enthusiasts by connecting them with mental health resources, fostering open conversations, and helping reduce stigma. 

“I want to create positive and engaging opportunities that help veterans reconnect with the sense of camaraderie they experienced during military service,” he said. “I also hope to strengthen support for our first responders and open the door to more conversations about mental health within our outdoor and agricultural communities.” 

Outside of work, Jerrod enjoys archery and bow hunting, passions that became an important source of purpose and connection during his transition to civilian life. He regularly participates in archery shoots and group hunts throughout Ohio and beyond and believes that finding meaningful purpose and connection can play an important role in mental well-being. 

“With Jerrod joining our team, we are strengthening our ability to connect with veterans, first responders, and rural communities across Ohio,” said Tony Coder, CEO of OSPF. “His passion for service, experience building community partnerships, and commitment to mental health will help expand our reach and deepen our impact.” 

OSPF is excited to welcome Jerrod to the team and looks forward to the work he will do to educate, advocate, and build connections to support individuals, families, and communities across Ohio in suicide prevention.