General

VOA|ReST 4 First Responders

Hosted By
Mary L.
Thursday, Sep 12, 2024 | 07:00pm - 08:00pm EDT
Free
10 seats remaining
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About this meeting
First Responders Supporting First Responders: Free Confidential Group Conversations for First Responder Resilience. VOA|ReST 4 First Responders are peer-to-peer small group support sessions designed to help First Responders process feelings of moral discomfort and distress while reclaiming strength and commitment to their profession. VOA|ReST 4 First Responders offers a virtual place for First Responders to speak openly and honestly with peers about the challenges and impact of their work. Group sessions are welcoming to all First Responders across the United States seeking to connect in a trusted environment with other First Responders. Anything shared within the group remains confidential allowing everyone an opportunity to speak freely without fear of judgment or repercussions. Peers have the opportunity to bring their real selves – no need to be tough, no need to hide emotions.
About the host
I am currently employed as a Case Manager working with veterans. As a US Navy veteran myself, as well as a Paramedic for many years, I have dealt with many mental health and addiction issues as a result of the traumas experienced during those years. Being on the other side of that, my passion is to listen to others who are experiencing those same issues and offer my support. Stop on by for some mindfulness and open sharing! It's amazing how much it helps!
Recent reviews
Mary was amazing! I felt so welcomed, genuinely supported, and safe. She was extremely empathetic, real, and encouraging. I hope that I can be a part of her group again.
Sep 13, 2024
Yuri is a fantastic facilitator, and made sure that everyone was given time to share, and to give support to one another. I really liked the pauses at the end when each person spoke because it fave me time to oause and reflect, and it is very respectful. I love that there is no cross talking in the session, and Yuri us very compassionate and empathic. I love the affirmations at the end, and this session was a great way to unwind after a challenging day. Thank you!!
Jul 05, 2024
The group leader was good and inspiring.
Oct 05, 2023
I was grateful to share my story with everyone and listen to the stories of others within the group. I plan to attend as much as possible and hope I am able to gain insight from this as well as give others my support as well. Thank you for being there in my time of need.
Jun 29, 2023
It was only 3 of us, but it was very helpful, It was cathartic, I did not realize how much a moral injury could affect my life.
Mar 13, 2023
Nothing at this time
Mar 09, 2023
Fantastic facilitator/cofacilitators as always!
Mar 03, 2023
Being able to just talk helped. And the honesty of everyone about themselves was very profound.
Feb 03, 2023
It was terrific to co-facilitate with Mary tonight.
Dec 09, 2022
Registration Closed
Attendees (2)
engosmo Jessica
VOA|ReST 4 First Responders logo
VOA|ReST 4 First Responders

VOA|ReST 4 First Responders are confidential, small group support sessions that maintain and build emotional resilience by offering:

• A unique space to share your experiences with other First Responders while remaining committed to your work.

• Time set aside for you to speak honestly with peers and trained facilitators who know what you go through as a First Responder.

• A service that can complement other resources your agency might offer. Online meetings are available in the comfort of your home, on an ongoing basis, whenever you need support.

 

When continuously faced with extraordinary circumstances, it is common for First Responders to be left emotionally depleted. Fatigue, isolation, sorrow, frustration, guilt, anxiety, and a sense of inadequacy or failure can be signs of moral dilemma, uncertainty, or distress.

 

Responding to these feelings paves the way for personal and professional resilience. Talking and listening can make a world of difference. First Responders who engage in peer-led group support are able to rebuild the strength needed to continue their important work without losing sight of their individual self-worth.

 

Given the demands of your career, it is important to process moral distress. You alone can make that commitment, but you don't have to do it alone.

 

Sessions are Safe, Interactive, and Judgment-Free

• Peer-to-peer conversations are confidential and off-the-record so you can speak openly.

• Each session is an opportunity to bring your real self.

• First Responder peers and peer facilitators have walked in your shoes. They get it.

 

For more than 125 years, Volunteers of America has been providing behavioral health, addiction treatment, and housing resources to military veterans. Our services are integrated with deep compassion and belief in a person’s capacity to overcome adversity. From this history, and using the techniques developed in our evidence-based, peer support program for veterans called Resilience Strength Training™, VOA|ReST was developed. Over 82% of participants report feeling significantly calmer and more peaceful after a meeting.

 

Sessions are free thanks to a generous grant from the HCA Healthcare foundation.

 

Your work is important. You are important. Take time to ReST.