CAFMA Hosts Empowering Program for First Responders

The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) recently hosted its third five-day Struggle Well program in collaboration with the nationally recognized Boulder Crest Foundation. This program, rooted in the science of Posttraumatic Growth, aims to equip first responders with tools to thrive in the aftermath of trauma. Following CAFMA’s session, the Prescott Valley Police Department continued the commitment to first responder well-being by hosting the fourth Struggle Well program.

The Focus of the Struggle Well Program

This initiative serves as a comprehensive, prevention-focused program, normalizing the challenges inherent in the lives of first responders. The goal is to empower participants to transform struggle into strength, benefiting their families, communities, and organizations.

During the sessions, participants from various local agencies, including CAFMA, Chino Valley Police Department, and Prescott Fire Department, engaged in interactive exercises that allowed them to reflect on their own experiences and personal growth. They developed actionable SMART goals—objectives that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—to guide their ongoing transformation.

Brody Fields, CAFMA Health and Safety Officer, stated, ‘CAFMA is proud to partner with the Boulder Crest non-profit to offer the five-day course to all local first responders and dispatchers. Struggle Well provides in-depth training on how to survive the struggles we encounter that are specific to first responders, building healthy practices that will help each individual thrive.’

Commitment to Well-being

John Feddema, CAFMA Interim Fire Chief, echoed the importance of such programs, saying, ‘The Struggle Well program is one of several initiatives we have embraced to support the behavioral health and wellness of our team and their families. We know the challenges of these professions do not stop at the station door, which is why programs like this are so important. They help our people grow through those challenges.’

The Boulder Crest Foundation is dedicated to fostering thriving communities by serving military members, veterans, first responders, and their families. This life-changing program is offered at no cost to participants, ensuring accessibility for all who can benefit.

For more information about the Struggle Well program or CAFMA’s ongoing efforts to support first responders, contact Brody Fields at 928-772-7711.

Stay Informed

For more local news stories, visit Signals A Z.com.