First Responders risk it all for us. They run toward danger when everyone else is running away from it. They spend their careers doing the hardest, scariest, most important jobs to keep the rest of us safe.

But being this courageous every day can come at a high price. The dangers that first responders witness take a heavy toll on their physical and mental health. First responders have a 10x higher risk of suicide attempts compared to the general population. It is estimated that 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions during their time of service, including severe depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The consistent exposure to traumatic incidents negatively impacts first responders and many turn to alcohol or other substances to cope and self-medicate, leading to high numbers of alcohol and drug dependence and addiction.

The First Responder Support Network was created over 25 years ago by a group of concerned first responders and clinicians who witnessed first-hand how critical stress was causing their colleagues and family members so much suffering and pain. Using proven methods and trauma-informed treatments, this team developed a library of best practice trauma recovery services that address the cumulative impacts of repeated exposure to critical incidents.

Since 2001, FRSN has served over 2,500 first responders and family members through 6-day residential retreats, weekly peer support groups, and peer trainings. Launched in Northern California, FRSN now leads retreats in Oregon, Washington State, Kansas, and Indiana. Our model has been replicated in communities as far away as Honduras and Australia.

Most of us are not trained to answer distress calls, put out real fires (not figurative fires!), or save lives, but we can show our courage and resilience in other ways - ways that can make a difference and help make our community a better place to live - just like our first responder neighbors. By participating in this challenge, you are not only helping first responders and their partners heal, you are challenging yourself to be the best version of YOU!

We are so grateful for your support,
The FRSN Family

Courage Counts Challenge

Display your courage, resiliency, and compassion in support of our first responder communities! Official Kick Off is June 15!

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Team Members