Northwest Michigan Peer Network

01/22/2026

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01/21/2026

📢 Friendly reminder: We’d love for you to join us—register to make sure you don’t miss this important session.

We’re launching the 2026 FST5 Webinar Series with an important session you’ll benefit from. "Understanding the FST5 Resources Available to You and Your Family."

📅 January 23, 2026
🕧 12:30–2:00 PM
🎓 1.5 EMS Preparatory CE Credits

This webinar offers a clear, practical overview of Frontline Strong Together (FST5) — created specifically to support Michigan first responders and their immediate family members.
This session is designed to make sure support is easy to understand, easy to access, and available before a crisis — for first responders and the people who support them at home.
👉 REGISTER by the link in the comments or scan the QR code.

FST5 program. Supporting the wellness of Michigan's first responders and their families.
Visit your FST5 Website at fst5.org
In 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬 or in need of 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬 call
1-833-34-STRONG
1-833-347-8766

01/12/2026

Cold weather brings out these awesome new beanies we just got in.

We only have one of each color for now with a rosewood color coming in for the women beanies.

$25 each.

01/10/2026

What do you see when you look at this image???
Take the Golden Gate Bridge out of it, take the uniform out of it, take the helicopters out of it and you’re left with two people just talking and listening to each other.

On March 11th, 2005, CHP Officer Kevin Briggs talked to Kevin Berthia for 92 minutes.
Let me say that again. Officer Briggs talked and listened to Berthia for 92 minutes!!!! In Berthia’s darkest moments.

More times than not, people just want to be heard, they don’t want to be judged for what they say, and they just want you to listen to them.

You don’t have to have a masters degree, you don’t have to be a doctor or therapist. All you need is the ability to listen with zero judgment.

01/07/2026

Your Mental Health Matters!!!

Unfiltered and blunt words from Former Firefighter/ Paramedic Kenny Davis:

“Tell them that they are gonna see some s**t that will not be easily dealt with. Place as much emphasis on mental health as you do for physical fitness, both the mind and body need to be cared for. Far too many brothers have left the fire service and even the planet due to lack of mental health awareness. Try to separate mind from body; the body has to do the work on each call while not allowing the mind become too damaged. It’s ok to not be ok. They are tasked with changing the culture from one of excessive machismo to acceptance and understanding for the traumas our psyches endure each shift. We each have shells to protect us from the tragedies we encounter on the job. Shells crack to the point it can no longer protect, which cracks the mind. Said cracks can be lessened by understanding the effects of trauma and seeking the help needed to alleviate some of the damage. First responders have a covenant with their communities to provide protection and life safety. Those services cannot be provided effectively by broken minds and souls. Take care of yourself and your brothers. Be mindful of damaging changes and offer a nonjudgmental ear.“

12/24/2025

We want to wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday.
Please know that resources are there for you 24/7.

The holidays can be heavy.
Empty chairs. Names we carry. Calls that don’t fade.

It’s okay to grieve. It’s okay to remember.
Just don’t carry it alone.

This season, take care of yourself. 🤍
_
FST5 program. Supporting the wellness of Michigan's first responders and their families.
Visit your FST5 Website at fst5.org
In 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬 or in need of 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬 call
1-833-34-STRONG
1-833-347-8766

12/11/2025

Breaks my heart to see one agency experienced so many in the timeframe they did.

12/09/2025

We are so proud of OG peer member Kathryn. This is an in depth discussion with the struggles she faced. This is what makes our team so amazing.

Podcast Episode · Minds on the Frontline Podcast · 12/08/2025 · 34m

12/08/2025

Attention all agencies and chief officers. I am working with Dr. Griffin to schedule some in person classes for 2026.

If you haven’t had this class you are missing out.
Dr. Griffin was one of the engineers on the Sofa Super Store in Charleston SC. That day Charleston Fire Dept loss 9 members.

He is looking for locations to host the class and some dates for 2026.

Note: This class typically brings in a large group. So, please make sure the location would be large enough.

His class is a registered Q course. So, please check with your county to see if you will have the funds.

Please email me if you are interested. Thank you.
ctaylor@peninsulafire.org.

Share and like. Thank you and stay safe.

12/08/2025

Frontline Strong Together haves another free CISM class coming up in January.

12/05/2025

Getting help shouldn’t feel complicated.

Many first responders tell us the same thing — by the time you work up the energy to reach out, the process of finding the right clinician can feel like another obstacle. Searching directories, playing phone tag, not knowing who truly understands the culture — it’s a lot, especially when you’re already carrying enough.

We created a simple confidential form to take that part off your plate.
✔ Tell us what you’re looking for
✔ Share your preferences
✔ We send back a personalized list of at least three clinicians who meet your criteria - within 48 hours

No directories to scroll. No unanswered calls. No guessing if someone is the right fit.
➡ For first responders and family members
➡ Completely confidential — one person receives and reviews all submissions
➡ No pressure - you choose if you want to reach out

Whether you're:
• A responder beginning therapy
• A spouse seeking support for your child
• A family member needing guidance

You’re not navigating it alone — we’ll help you make the connection that feels right for you.
🔗 Submit the confidential request form using the LINK in the COMMENTS.
📩 Questions? Contact: info@FST5.org

_
FST5 program. Supporting the wellness of Michigan's first responders and their families.
Visit your FST5 Website at fst5.org
In 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬 or in need of 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬 call
1-833-34-STRONG
1-833-347-8766