BY KAREN BOSSICK

A program dedicated to providing access to free, professional, confidential, trauma-informed counseling for first responders has launched in the Wood River Valley.

The At Ease program was launched by Capt. Bryan Carpita of Blaine County Sheriff’s Office and program manager for 911 At Ease International, along with Erin Pfaeffle, who serves as clinical coordinator with 911 At Ease.

More than $15,000 was recently raised to support the service via a small fundraiser.

911 At Ease International was founded by Michael Armand Hammer, the 911AEI Chairman of the Board and retired Sergeant Mike McGrew, CEO and Executive Director, in 2014, to help first responders deal with issues that come from working in trauma-related fields.

“The work we have been able to do with our first responders has been life changing, and we are getting requests from all over the nation and world to bring the At Ease program to new communities.,” said McGrew.

"We are incredibly fortunate to have 911 at Ease growing their service in Blaine County,” added Wood River Fire Chief Ron Bateman. “Although rural Idaho is a world away from Southern California, issues of mental health for first responders aren't isolated geographically.  I know that my job begins with taking care of our internal customers and I am reassured in the knowledge that this amazing, organic, and accessible resource is just a phone call away for our members."

Those interested in supporting the At Ease program can donate through the website: www.911aei.org/give or send a check, payable to 911 At Ease International, by mail to: PO Box 30363, Santa Barbara, CA 93130. All donations are tax deductible under the 501c3 IRS guidelines.

 For more information about the At Ease program in Idaho, email: development@911aei.org.