Resilience- the ability to “recover quickly from difficulties”. It’s what is expected of us as first responders. It is the unspoken pledge we take when we answer the call to serve our communities. But it is also the way we are wired.

Your resiliency through two years of a long and painful pandemic, calls for criminal justice reform and defunding the police haven’t stopped you from showing up to work and superbly getting the job done under intense circumstances. Your resilience and tenacity as the high functioning human beings you are often goes unrecognized and underappreciated. You work crazy shifts and long hours, exposing yourself to unimaginable trauma day in and day out. However, you are still expected to remain professional and composed at all times, no matter the situation. Yet here you are relentlessly showing up to work to face another round of unknown challenges. All the while serving with pride, compassion and temerity.

Please take a moment to reflect upon this, to appreciate your resilience. Recognize your incredible strength and unshakable resolve. Reflect upon the trials and tribulations of the job, the heartache and the struggles you endure to ensure your communities are safe. Know that we stand together, united as one family, to uplift and support each other as we walk thru the fire. Thank you all for what you do!

On another note, registration for this years Annual Training Conference is open and available on the CAHN website. The conference will be held in person at the La Quinta Resort and Club near Palm Springs. It promises to be a good one so don’t miss out on this valuable training opportunity! I hope to see you there.

Angela Averiett
President