Western New York First Responder Wellness Symposium

Strive to Thrive NY, Ardent Solutions, and the Allegany County Sheriff’s Wellness Team are excited to invite you to the inaugural Wellness Symposium at Beaver Hollow Retreat in Java, NY, on March 14th, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This event is exclusively designed for Law Enforcement Personnel, Corrections Officers, Probation Officers, District Attorneys, EMS professionals, Firefighters, active military, veterans, and 911 dispatchers.

First responders are at increased risk for experiencing stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, trauma, isolation, and mental health challenges. Throughout the day participants will hear evidenced-based research, intertwined with the presenters lived experience. It’s real talk about the stressors of the job. Just as important as talking about the risk factors, participants will be provided with resources and supports to promote resiliency and well-being.
Presentation topics include:

First Responder Mental Health Needs Assessment Terry Hastings, Senior Policy Advisor for the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES). With over 6,000 participants completing the assessment, an overview of the findings, including insights regarding the stressors, the types of programming that could support first responders, and the barriers to seeking treatment are examined.

The Officer Wellness Program in collaboration with NYS OMH 
Brent Schlafer, Wellness Coordinator for the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office
Belinda Schlafer, LMHC, CCTP, EMDR-C
Carrie Wong, LMSW, NYS Office of Mental Health
Stress, trauma, ACE’s, a shortened life expectancy, and suicide rates are examined. Participants will be provided with a comprehensive examination of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 8 dimensions of wellness to formulate a self-care plan.

Leadership Panel Chief James Assmann. By promoting open dialogue and collaboration with the leadership, participants will be provided with actionable strategies to promote mental health and wellness within law enforcement and first responder communities.

Presentation Ryan Perlongo, Public Safety Program Specialist 3, Evidence-Based Training & Innovation

Facilitated Discussion and Networking 
This is an opportunity for participants to share their collective experiences; the victories, and challenges encountered in establishing individual and agency-wide wellness initiatives.

REGISTRATION LINK: https://forms.office.com/r/vW4wXCECyF?origin=lprLink

This free event will be held at Beaver Hollow Conference Center: 1083 Pitt Road Java, NY 14082
If you have any questions about this event, please contact Wellness Coordinator, Brent Schlafer, Allegany County Sheriff’s Office by email at: brent.schlafer@alleganyco.gov