Looking Back – Moving Forward

First Responder Mental Health & Wellness Summit - 2026

We are most grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s First Responder Mental Health and Wellness Summit a success. There’s something special about seeing everything come together as we continue our focus on reaching out to all the dedicated individuals who go the extra mile in responding to emergencies and keeping our communities safe.

Our purpose in hosting such an event comes from the heart. We want to share information and resources here in western North Carolina and across the country that provide mental health services for healing. We also want to keep the conversation open about the perpetual challenges and dangers first responders face every day on the job by continuing to build awareness, reduce stigma, and create a confidential pathway to support.

As folks waved goodbye on the last day of the event, Heart of Horse Sense founder and executive director, Shannon Knapp, began jotting notes about how we as a community can continue reaching out and being a resource for those who give their all for us. The Summit plays a pivotal part in addressing the issues, giving way to more opportunities throughout the year to support and collaborate with others.

“We're so pleased with our 2nd Annual First Responder Mental Health and Wellness Summit,” says Shannon. “We were all moved by the openness and honesty of Jamie Williams, our keynote speaker, who set the tone for the three-day event. Meaningful connections were made between first responders and community support resources available for them, and affirmed that the Summit is meeting a need in our community. As a result, collaborations are growing between nonprofits and first responders to better build awareness and reduce stigma. And we got to spend time together with working dogs and horses! What more could you ask for? We're honored to be able to serve WNC in this way, and invite those interested in being a part or in supporting this work to contact me at Shannon@HeartofHorseSense.org.”

Keynote speaker, retired firefighter and fire captain, Jamie Williams, shared her thoughts, “It was truly a privilege to speak on behalf of Heart of Horse Sense at the Summit—thank you again for the opportunity. Heart of Horse Sense continues to do incredible work by staying rooted in what they do best: creating a space where first responders can begin healing alongside their horse partners. There is something uniquely powerful about that connection—something that reaches beyond words and into the nervous system, trust, and restoration.”

“As we think about next steps, my strongest recommendation is this:

Let’s expand opportunities for connection through peer support. Creating first responder peer-to-peer healing groups at the farm could be a meaningful next step. These spaces allow responders to connect with others who understand the weight of the job—while also benefiting from the calming, grounding presence of horses.



At the same time, we can invite the broader community into the mission. Hosting outdoor fundraising events with speakers can help educate the public on post-traumatic growth, reduce stigma, and answer an important question: why horses?”

“It’s also important to recognize that many departments have ongoing fundraising needs. Partnering with them creates a powerful opportunity:

Departments could engage in fundraising efforts that directly support a dedicated day of healing and hope at the ranch—alongside community members serving as volunteers. This not only provides access to wellness resources, but also builds a connection between responders and the communities they serve in a meaningful, human way.”

With more insight, Jamie continued, “What’s the next step—not just in planning another Summit—but in truly reaching first responders? You don’t have to wear a uniform to make a difference. Support doesn’t always look like stepping into the firehouse. First responder culture is built on trust, and that trust is earned over time. But meaningful impact is still possible:

• Supporting programs like Heart of Horse Sense
• Attending and sharing community events
• Contributing to department fundraising efforts that support wellness access
• Volunteering during ranch-based events that bring responders and the community together
• Simply being willing to listen—when the opportunity presents itself

Because sometimes, the most powerful thing we can offer isn’t a solution—

it’s presence. The path forward isn’t about forcing entry into tight-knit circles.

It’s about building bridges that first responders feel safe choosing to cross.

And that starts with consistency, humility, and a genuine desire to serve.”

Jamie continues to stay involved in reaching out to first responders. She is an equine professional and co-founder of the Optimum Resilience Program at Best Solutions Therapy in Middleton, Idaho, providing treatment, counseling, education, advocacy, and life coaching.

She’s also part of the counseling and training team at First Responder Wellness, an inpatient and intensive outpatient program located in Newport Beach, California, specializing in treating first responders and public safety professionals recovering from trauma with a safe transition back to their careers and personal lives.

In addition, she is the co-founder of FRCareer 360, a coaching and personalized mentorship program and resource center for individuals choosing firefighting as their lifework. The team of first responders guides individuals along every step of the hiring process, so they’re more confident and prepared for the journey ahead.

“Retirement” has given Jamie an opportunity to continue reaching out to seasoned first responders and those entering the field, giving her hope that each individual has access to peer support and the resources for sustaining emotional and mental well-being. When she’s not teaching and mentoring others, Jame enjoys a peaceful life on her farm in Idaho with her horses, cats, chickens, and ducks.



Hosting an event like this brings great joy in expanding resources and cultivating friendships. Thanks again to Jamie Williams for her time and kindness in helping us coordinate each session during the three days. Another round of applause goes to John Wilson, Fire Services Program Director and instructor at Buncombe County Public Safety Training Center at the ABTech Woodfin campus.

Right from the start last year, when we approached the facility about holding the first and second day of the event there, John welcomed us with such warmth and hospitality. He’s been most helpful and accommodating in making us feel at home in such a beautiful space.

The 30-acre campus is a state-of-the-art complex with hands-on training for law enforcement, fire, and EMS services that includes classrooms, labs, and meeting rooms in the main educational building, a driving track, a burn building, and a crime scene apartment that can be used to replicate real-life scenarios. Buncombe County is very fortunate in having such a significant training facility where first responders can study and hone their skills.

We also want to thank our volunteers, board of directors, and sponsors for their time and commitment in reaching out to first responders. Together, we can continue to make a difference.

UPCOMING GROUPS FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

“The capacity to care is what gives life its deepest significance.”