Welcome to the partner foundation

P.A.R.T.N.E.R - Providing Area Resources to National Emergency Responders.

We are a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to supporting first responders and their families in the wake of critical incidents.

The Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor is the highest decoration for bravery exhibited by public safety officers in the United States, comparable to the military’s Medal of Honor. It is presented by the President of the United States.

Meet the founder - Kyle E. Baker

Founder - The Partner Foundation
Seasoned Police Officer | Medal of Valor Recipient | First Responder Advocate

For more than a decade, I have proudly served as a Police Officer, devoted to protecting and safeguarding the community I call home. In 2020, a series of critical incidents, both on and off duty, tested me in ways I could never have imagined. Those moments left lasting scars, but they also revealed a new kind of battle: one that demanded the same courage, resilience, and perseverance I carried in uniform, the fight to rise, rebuild, and continue serving with purpose.

Like so many first responders, I tried at first to carry the weight alone. But true strength emerged when I chose to step forward, connect with others, and transform hardship into a mission greater than myself.

That mission became The Partner Foundation, a nonprofit created to stand with the very people who stand for us all. We focus on providing Adventure Therapy, Respite Opportunities, and Peer Support for first responders and their families in the aftermath of critical incidents, partnering with trusted organizations and nonprofits to extend our reach.

Today, I share my story not to dwell on past trials, but to light the way forward. Whether through coffee, conversation, or connection, The Partner Foundation is building a culture where courage is honored, service is celebrated, and healing is possible.

Contact Kyle - Kyle@PartnerNC.Org

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First responders are regularly exposed to life-threatening situations, traumatic events, and high-stress environments. Studies reveal that they are at a heightened risk for conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress, depression, and anxiety.

“C.H.I.P - IN”

C.H.I.P - Community Helping Inspire Protectors

Our Pay-It-Forward Chip can be located among many community Partners around town. Pick yours up today and Pay-It-Forward to the one you admire most. Doing so gets our mission in the palm of their hands.

How it works

UNVEILING THE REALITY

Post-Traumatic Stress Statistics Among First Responders in the U.S. 

  • According to research conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions, including PTSD, compared to about 20% in the general population.

  • There has been concern about elevated suicide rates among first responders, with PTSD being a contributing factor. An article by EMS.gov found that firefighters and police officers are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty.

  • Despite the high prevalence of PTSD among first responders, there are significant barriers to seeking and receiving treatment. These barriers may include stigma, concerns about career repercussions, and a lack of understanding about mental health issues.

  • First responders are regularly exposed to traumatic events as part of their job duties, which can contribute to the development of PTS. These events may include accidents, natural disasters, violent crimes, critical incidents and medical emergencies.

  • PTS not only affects the first responders themselves but also their families and loved ones. The strain of untreated PTS can lead to relationship difficulties, family conflict, and a decreased quality of life for all involved.

  • PTS among first responders is often associated with higher rates of substance abuse as a coping mechanism. This can further complicate treatment and recovery efforts.