In March of 2022, Heartland Education, Inc., pioneered a groundbreaking initiative by establishing the first-of-its-kind, multi-agency, multi-discipline peer support team. This visionary team was meticulously trained to provide crucial mental health assistance to Oklahoma's brave first responders in their times of need.

Since its inception, our peer support team has been inundated with requests from first responders grappling with the aftermath of traumatic events. Over the past two years, we have individually assisted 731 first responders, facilitated 17 group debriefings, responded to out-of-state requests for assistance, and referred 81 individuals to Licensed Professional Counselors.

The pilot training course for our peer support team, held in Oklahoma City from February 28th to March 2nd, 2022, marked the beginning of our journey. On the very day of their graduation, the team was immediately activated and deployed to aid a fire department in the midst of a critical incident. It's important to note that our team comprises 26 dedicated individuals who, alongside their full-time commitments, selflessly volunteer their time to respond to mental health emergencies regularly for the past two years.

Funded solely through grants and donations, our team endeavors to provide training, equipment, and financial assistance to first responders who may otherwise struggle to access professional mental health services. However, the demand for mental health support continues to surge, necessitating the recruitment of additional members who will undergo comprehensive training.

In collaboration with Heroes in the Heartland, Oklahoma's premier first responder conference, the Heartland Education, Inc., Peer Support Team is thrilled to announce our 3rd annual cornhole tournament and silent auction. Scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 26th, in Norman, OK, this event promises to be a highlight of the four-day conference, offering valuable training, lectures, and skills opportunities for dispatchers, fire departments, law enforcement, and EMS personnel.

Last year, our team was grateful to raise over $6,000 through the tournament and silent auction. With your support, we aim to surpass this amount and make an even greater impact in the lives of our Oklahoma first responders. Your generous donations will help make professional mental health services accessible to those who sacrifice so much for our communities.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who contribute to our cause and join us in our mission to "save a life today." Together, we can ensure that our first responders receive the support and care they deserve.