Medic One Foundation Awards $100,000 Grant to PeerCommand Initiative
Last month, Medic One Foundation awarded a $100,000 grant to Renton Fire Authority to support the PeerCommand Initiative, a groundbreaking platform designed to address the unique mental health needs of first responders. This marks the Foundation’s second major grant for mental health initiatives, reaffirming its commitment to supporting those who serve our communities.
PeerCommand takes a proactive approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based practices like the Stress First Aid (SFA) model and the 8 Dimensions of Wellbeing. The platform offers structured check-ins, wellness planning, and access to vetted resources, ensuring first responders receive the support they need to maintain resilience and prevent burnout. Key features include tailored daily, weekly, and monthly check-ins and availability settings, which also support peer team members who often face their own stress and fatigue.
The initiative builds on Renton Fire Authority’s $140,000 investment in peer support infrastructure and leadership. By fostering a culture of care and early intervention, PeerCommand helps first responders identify and address stress before it escalates. It also serves as a model for other departments in the region, creating a scalable solution for long-term mental health support.
Medic One Foundation’s support ensures the completion of PeerCommand’s development, paving the way for its successful implementation in 2024. This partnership reflects the Foundation’s ongoing dedication to improving the well-being of first responders, who face immense challenges in their critical roles every day.
Through strategic investments like this, Medic One Foundation continues to make a lasting impact on the mental health and resilience of our first responder community.
