First Responders Supporting First Responders

Free Confidential Group Conversations for First Responder Resilience

VOA|ReST 4 First Responders

VOA|ReST 4 First Responders are free, 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.

Thank you for welcoming me to this meeting. I felt very comfortable after a few minutes and enjoyed talking. I like the format and will tell my peers about the group.

Michael

Bruce and Elizabeth [facilitators] did wonderfully. Sharing experiences and realizing different professions have very similar trauma was enlightening. The relaxation techniques were great, and something I can use when needed.

Shannon

Sharing experiences and realizing different professions have very similar trauma was enlightening. The relaxation techniques were great, and something I can use when needed.

Grant

The meeting was a safe space to share feelings and tell our stories. I feel very seen and heard by people who can relate.

Reanna

Being able to just talk helped. And the honesty of everyone about themselves was very profound.

Bonnie

It was my first-ever group meeting and it was very wonderful. It was very comforting and well-facilitated.

Amanda

A Peer Support Model Just for First Responders

Virtual Sessions

One-hour group gatherings, held online nearly every day, make it easy to find a session that works with your schedule.

Peers Who Understand

Connect with up to 10 other First Responders who have walked in your shoes.

Trained Facilitators

Experienced First Responder facilitators guide the candid, judgment-free group.

Developed by Volunteers of America (VOA), 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.

Using the techniques introduced in VOA’s evidence-based, peer support program for veterans called Resilience Strength Training™, VOA|ReST was created to help frontline care personnel face the extraordinary emotional challenges of their work and circumstances.

Your Work is Important. You are Important.

Take Time Today to ReST

FIND A SESSION

Tuesday, December 6, 3-4 p.m. ET | 2-3 p.m. CT

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Understanding Moral Distress

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.

VOA|ReST 4 First Responders was created to work within the busy schedules of those on the front line.

Sessions occur several times a week and there is no long-term commitment. Sign up for a time that works for you.

Enter ‘FIRST RESPONDERS’ into the search bar below to find meetings customized for first responders. Then click on a time below to take you directly to the HeyPeers website. Create your free HeyPeers account and safely schedule VOA|ReST 4 First Responders peer support group sessions that work for your schedule.