Better Health Foundation awards grants to Hero Haven

trauma ER

Hero Haven Inc. has been awarded a $17,600 grant from the Better Health Foundation to facilitate multi-day retreats aimed at providing essential skills and tools for emergency responders to recognize and cope with cumulative trauma.

Emergency responders, including firefighters, EMS, police officers, and other frontline personnel witness and experience extraordinary events daily. They encounter trauma that most individuals will never face in their lifetimes.

This recurring exposure takes a toll on the brain health and emotional well-being of those who respond to our call for help, a news release said. Hero Haven Inc., of DeWitt, Iowa, recognizes the critical need for comprehensive support. And it is tailored to the unique challenges faced by these heroes. 

Essential support needed

“Hero Haven Inc. is deeply grateful for the invaluable support provided by the Better Health Foundation,” Mary Sandry, co-founder of Hero Haven Inc., said in the release. ”This funding enables us to expand our efforts in providing essential support to emergency responders who selflessly serve our communities. Our multi-day retreats offer a holistic approach to healing, empowering participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the challenges of their demanding roles.”

The retreats encompass a range of therapeutic activities. That includes one-on-one sessions, mindfulness practices, group discussions and experiential workshops. Through these immersive experiences, participants will gain insights into trauma recognition. They’ll learn stress management techniques. And they’ll find strategies for fostering resilience in the face of adversity. Interested participants are encouraged to secure a spot in the next retreat. For more information, visit www.hometownherohaven.com.

Better Health Foundation was created by $40 million in seed funding from Genesis Health System. The foundation mobilizes philanthropy to measurably improve community health in a nine-county greater-Quad Cities region. Visit www.thebetterhealthfoundation.org.

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