Their Words
Testimonials
At With You, the voices of our first responders and their families are at the heart of everything we do. These stories — raw, real, and powerful — reflect the impact of peer support, community connection, and knowing you're not alone. Their courage fuels our mission.
As a first responder, it's easy to feel like you're carrying everything alone. With You changed that for me. They showed up when I didn't even know how to ask for help. Whether it was quiet conversations, peer support, or just knowing someone truly understood — they reminded me that I wasn't alone, and that my story mattered. With You didn't just support me — they walked with me!
The CISM class I attended had a huge impact on me. It really showed me how important CISM is for a fire department, and how vital a role I can play in someone's life when dealing with a tough situation. It was a good reminder of what to do, and an even bigger help with what not to do. With You hosting it made the class very stress free — they provided meals and great conversations during breaks. Their attention to detail and genuine care made it more enjoyable.
As a first responder, I've faced battles that most people don't see — mental health struggles, burnout, and moments of doubt. With You doesn't just offer support; they truly understand because they've been there too. Knowing someone walks beside me through those unseen fights has made all the difference. Their mission feels like a lifeline, reminding me I'm not alone.
I wasn't directly receiving services from With You, but I was still impacted in a powerful way. There was a moment before I was set to sing — I always tend to get extremely nervous — and Allen Cormier noticed. He didn't just offer a quick "You got this." He stayed with me on the field, walked out with me, and spoke calm, encouraging words before and after. That kind of presence, that kind of care, speaks volumes about the heart behind With You.
Being a first responder for 10 years, I've first-hand seen and experienced the stressors of the career and what it does to one's mental health. It's a reality less talked about and often overlooked. "With You" is a phenomenal organization operated by first responders to help first responders. First responders know what first responders deal with firsthand, and that connection is unmatched. It's comforting knowing that myself, along with others, have the opportunity to help those who dedicate so much to their communities.
For 23 years, I stood on the front lines of law enforcement, bearing witness to the profound trauma this job lays at our feet. I came up in an era where mental health was simply not discussed. About 14 years ago, I said, "No more." I sought help, stepped out of that darkness, and broke the mold that had kept so many of us trapped. This is what "With You" is all about: bringing light to the darkness. It's about education and understanding, erasing the stigma we've all carried — because when we bring light to the darkness, we truly begin to heal.