Alliance180 Welcomes Jason Collins as Strategic Support Director

Alliance180, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming veteran, first responder and frontline healthcare workers wellness through an equine transformational program, is proud to announce the appointment of Jason Collins as Strategic Support Director. Collins, who previously served as a Board Advisor to the organization, stepped into his new role in late August.

A U.S. Navy veteran, Collins brings both lived experience and professional expertise to Alliance180. During his military career, he served as a Master-at-Arms, with deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. His service also took him to South Korea, San Diego, San Antonio, and Washington State’s Bangor Sub Base.

After his time in the Navy, Collins was diagnosed with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. While traditional treatment offered temporary relief, he found longer-lasting wellness through alternative approaches—including Alliance180’s equine-assisted program, introduced to him by Alliance180 co-founder Bob Nevins. The experience was life-changing, allowing him to reduce his reliance on medication and therapy while restoring a sense of peace and purpose.

“This organization changed my life,” said Collins. “It not only gave me the tools to heal but showed me the power of connection and community. I’m honored to now help guide Alliance180 as it grows and continues to impact the lives of others who have walked a path like mine.”

Collins went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology using the Post-9/11 GI Bill and has worked extensively in veteran services in higher education and programming for active duty families. His professional background, combined with his deep personal connection to the mission, uniquely positions him to support Alliance180’s strategic vision and long-term sustainability.

“As a Board Advisor, Jason was already a trusted voice in shaping our direction,” said Denise Romeo, Executive Director of Alliance180. “In this new role, he will be instrumental in helping us navigate the future by expanding our reach, strengthening our programs, and ensuring we can continue to stand alongside veterans, first responders, and frontline healthcare workers in their journeys to healing.”

Alliance180 was founded by Bob Nevins, a decorated Army helicopter pilot who served during the Vietnam War. The Program was developed and written by co-founder Melody Squier, who is an Equine Specialist and first responder, and is based on trust through the universal language of the horse. This organization’s use of science-based research of the Polyvagal Theory, developed by Stephen Porges, Ph.D., Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, University of North Carolina, and Polyvagal Institute, distinguishes it from other programs.

The mission of this peer-to-peer, purpose-driven Program aims to prevent suicide for fellow Veterans, first responders, and frontline health care workers facing the effects of trauma through a transformative equine experience. The organization serves every county within New York State and beyond. No client has to pay for these services, or the travel to receive them.

For more information about Alliance180, visit https://www.alliance180.org.