Prioritizing our First Responders.

Our Why

First Responders experience 200% more trauma in their lifetime than the average civilian will in their careers (Police1, Rachelle Zemlok, PsyD. 2023). Responders are the first on scene and are taught to compartmentalize emotions and not process what they experience on the job. Instead, responders are told to move-on and cope as best they can without given the tools to decompress from the images, sounds, feelings, and more. Responders are quickly conditioned to stuff the trash. Over time, symptoms begin to show, and life can easily become overwhelming causing a lot of hardship both personally and professionally.

Operation Guardian Group was formed to glorify God first and confront the need for more preventative care, assist when the crisis hits, and support first responders during their journeys on the frontlines. Also, to address the cumulative stressors over time which arise from the wear and tear of the job, and the organizational stress. We want to provide awareness and connection, so that responders can show up to give their best long-term and know their identity apart from the job.

In addition, Operation Guardian Group desires to be a support to family members. Spouses or significant others, children, and extended family are also affected by their responder’s traumas and often do not know the warning signs or how to manage it all. It can feel isolating and confusing. Unfortunately, these symptoms can lead to divorce and other lifelong pain.

John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

The Bible reminds us that while we will face pain on this earth, He holds the victory, so we can put our hope in Him. Managing our hardships in the first responder world with Jesus is essential. He is our foundation, our source of true strength, and guide as we face the evils of this world.