Prioritizing our First Responders.
Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Preventative care, building resiliency on the journey, and partnering with first responders and their family members.
What is a First Responder?
“…an individual who is among the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency, such as an accident, natural disaster, or terrorist attack.”
Operation Guardian Group was designed to minister to:
Law Enforcement Officers
Firefighters
EMS Workers
Correction Officers
Dispatch / Communications
Responder Family Members
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 their emotions and fix the situation at hand using the training and tools they were given. They are also taught to move-forward with minimal processing of their experiences. Over time, symptoms begin to show, and life can easily become overwhelming causing 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 do this by providing rest, mental health care, education, community, and more.
In addition, Operation Guardian Group desires to be a support to family members. Spouses, children, and extended family are also affected by their responder’s traumas and often do not know the warning signs or how to help. It can feel isolating and confusing.
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 must put our hope in Him alone. 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.
Join with us as we provide for the needs of First Responders in every way we can in order to help them maintain the calling they first believed in and that many cannot do!
Mission First Training Center
A TRAINING SPACE for workshops, retreats, courses, and more. The Mission First Training Center consists of on-going events and training for first responder groups. In addition, the space may be used for additional needs in the community for those who want to partner with Operation Guardian Group and support the organization’s overall mission and vision.
Squads
SQUADS provided regularly for first responders and/or spouse. Studies show one of the best remedies to hardship is community. Squads are faith-based, confidential, and relevant. They are led by a trained group leader(s) who facilitates specific topics and conversations. Squads are supportive and non-judgmental. Often a workbook or resource is used to facilitate growth and change. Groups options consist of individual, couples, and/or gender specific.
Retreats
FIRST RESPONDER RETREATS are available for short or long-term periods. The retreat space allows for rest and recovery after a critical incident, work stress/burnout, personal hardship, and overall wellness care. At times, first responders and their significant others can attend COUPLE’S RETREATS. In addition, FAMILY RETREATS provide a time to relax and connect with other first responder families.
“Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle. He is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, and in whom I take refuge. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day.”
— Psalm 91:4-5
Need prayer?
We are here to pray for you! Share your prayer request and if you’re comfortable, we can follow-up with you as soon as possible.
Contact Us.
Email
info@operationguardiangroup.com
Phone
(910) 242-4122
For emergencies, please call 911.
For immediate support or to talk with a trained crisis specialist, dial 988.