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who we are
The Veterans Accessing Lifelong Opportunities for Rehabilitation (VALOR) program was founded in Collin County, Texas, by Judge John Roach, Jr. with the support of Sheriff Jim Skinner. Built on a deep respect for military service, VALOR provides incarcerated veterans with the therapy, structure, and tools they need to heal and successfully reintegrate into society.
Our mission
The Veterans Accessing Lifelong Opportunities for Rehabilitation (VALOR) program was founded in Collin County, Texas, by Judge John Roach, Jr. with the support of Sheriff Jim Skinner. Built on a deep respect for military service, VALOR provides incarcerated veterans with the therapy, structure, and tools they need to heal and successfully reintegrate into society.
what we do
VALOR combines traditional and innovative therapies with discipline and accountability. Veterans accepted into the program agree to community supervision, structured living, and meaningful work opportunities. Daily routines foster stability, while therapies equip participants with healthier coping strategies and decision-making skills.
A signature component of the program is equine therapy—developed in partnership with legendary horsemen Pat Puckett and Punk Carter. This unique initiative helps veterans confront trauma, rebuild trust, and rediscover themselves through a powerful connection with horses.
why it matters
Former service members make up nearly 8% of inmates in state prisons and 5% in federal facilities. Traditional probation and rehabilitation methods often fail to meet their unique needs. VALOR fills this gap by offering veterans a path to healing that understands their experiences, honors their service, and empowers them to start over.
looking ahead
VALOR has already changed lives. Veterans who once faced years in prison are now finding steady work, reconnecting with their communities, and rebuilding their confidence. The program operates without taxpayer funding, relying on partnerships, volunteers, and community support to grow.
Our vision is to expand VALOR’s reach and serve as a statewide model for veteran rehabilitation. With the right support, we can provide more veterans with the therapy, tools, and opportunities they need to transform their futures.
the men behind the mission
Collin county sheriff
jim skinner
Collin County Sheriff Jim Skinner is a 32-year law enforcement veteran, trial attorney, and former prosecutor who has dedicated his career to public safety and service. Since taking office in 2017, he has overseen 550 personnel serving more than 1.1 million citizens across 880 square miles in one of the fastest-growing areas of Texas.
Sheriff Skinner has implemented major initiatives to combat crime, strengthen community safety, and modernize county facilities. His leadership has been recognized nationally, including speaking at the White House on human trafficking and serving as a subject-matter expert for the President’s Commission on Law Enforcement.
A proud U.S. Air Force veteran and former Security Police Dog Handler and SWAT Team Leader, Sheriff Skinner has continued his commitment to veterans by co-founding the VALOR program, an innovative initiative that helps incarcerated veterans heal from trauma, overcome addiction, and find second chances through therapy, structure, and opportunities such as equine therapy.
Sheriff Skinner also serves on the Board of Directors of the National Sheriffs’ Association, where he chairs the Government Affairs Committee, and remains actively involved in organizations dedicated to law enforcement, public safety, and community service.
Collin county judge
john roach, jr.
Judge John Roach, Jr. has served as Judge of the 296th District Court in Collin County since 2007, presiding over felony criminal, family law, civil litigation, and Child Protective Services cases. Known for his innovation on the bench, he has disposed of more than 20,000 cases with one of the lowest reversal rates in the county.
Judge Roach has pioneered new approaches to justice through technology and reform. He developed the nationally recognized Felony Video Plea Program, saving the county both costs and risks associated with inmate transport, and spearheaded the Mental Health Managed Counsel Program, a model now used across Texas to better serve defendants struggling with mental illness.
A Marine Corps veteran, Judge Roach has carried his commitment to service into his judicial work. In 2018, he founded the VALOR program (Veterans Accessing Lifelong Opportunities for Rehabilitation), designed to help incarcerated veterans overcome trauma, addiction, and the challenges of reintegration through therapy, structure, and innovative initiatives such as equine therapy.
Active in public service and community life, Judge Roach previously served on the Plano City Council and has long been engaged in Collin County civic and Republican leadership. A lifelong Collin County resident, he and his wife Laura, an accomplished attorney, are raising their three sons in Plano.
