About
About Us
The First Alarm Foundation is committed to supporting the mental health of first responders and their families. Our mission is to raise awareness and promote prevention of mental health issues that are common in high-stress professions such as policing, firefighting, and emergency medical services. At the First Alarm Foundation, we believe that mental health should be openly discussed and actively supported, especially within the first responder community. Our value proposition centers around breaking the stigma associated with mental health challenges, providing a clear path to understanding, support, and resilience.
services unique?
The First Alarm Foundation stands out in prevention, awareness, and breaking stigma with these unique
features:
- Tailored Prevention
- Focused Awareness
- Effective Stigma-Breaking
- Strong Partnerships
- Family Support
In July 2024, my life changed forever when I lost my loving husband, Alex Acosta, a highly respected Miami-Dade Air Rescue Lieutenant with over 25 years of service, including 17 years on Air Rescue. Alex was an incredible father, husband, son, and friend, and a devoted first responder known for his compassion and strength. Despite his battle with PTSD, he excelled in his work, saving countless lives and teaching at Miami-Dade College’s EMT program.
After his passing, I founded the First Alarm Foundation along with my son to carry on Alex’s legacy by breaking the stigma around mental health in the first responder community. Our mission is to raise awareness, provide resources, and create a supportive community so that first responders and their families know they aren’t alone and that it’s okay to ask for help. Through this foundation, I hope to foster understanding and support for mental health struggles, ultimately saving lives and strengthening the bonds within our first responder family.
The First Alarm Foundation is committed to supporting the mental health of first responders and their families.
This includes professionals such as police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, and other emergency personnel who face high-stress situations regularly. They are the primary audience, as they are directly impacted by the mental health challenges the foundation addresses.
Spouses, children, and other immediate family members of first responders who experience the indirect effects of their loved ones’ high-stress occupations. They are crucial for providing support and fostering a supportive home environment.
Management and leaders within police departments, fire departments, EMS agencies, and other related organizations. These stakeholders can facilitate the implementation of mental health programs and policies within their institutions.
Individuals and groups involved in shaping policies related to public
safety and mental health. Engaging with these stakeholders helps promote systemic changes that benefitthe first responder community.
The broader community who may benefit from increased awareness about the unique challenges faced by first responders. Public support helps in reducing stigma and fostering a more understanding society.
Other organizations that focus on mental health, crisis intervention, or public safety. Partnering with these groups can enhance the foundation’s reach and impact.
Please help if you can.