In time, Kyle’s drive to heal led him to resources revolving around adventure therapy programs that helped him begin to find peace. When traditional resources failed him, adventure therapy programs became his saving grace. Adventure Therapy activities such as water sports, like wake surfing, land sports, like hunting and fishing, and air sports, like skydiving, all revolve around a concept called “eustress,” or positive stress, which provides a mental boost through challenging yet rewarding experiences.

These activities—and the sense of community they created—became vital tools in Kyle’s journey toward recovery. His experience made it clear: first responders need accessible, affordable and effective resources to address the unique pressures of their work. This realization sparked the creation of The Partner Foundation.

The Partner Foundation is more than just an organization; it’s a lifeline for first responders and their families, connecting them to the kinds of resources Kyle and Christina found so transformative. The foundation partners with local and national groups to offer resources that cover all aspects of well-being, from mental health support and stress management to adventure-based therapies.

• Adventure Therapy: Activities like wake surfing, fishing, hunting, and skydiving that offer therapeutic excitement and help first responders reconnect with themselves in a positive environment.

• Respite Opportunities: Vacations at donated beach and mountain homes, cruises, and team-building retreats to provide space for rest and rejuvenation.

• Counseling and Peer Support: Access to vetted professionals and peer support networks that understand the unique challenges of emergency service careers.

The Partner Foundation recognizes that untreated post-traumatic stress not only affects first responders but also impacts their families and communities. Many similar stories such as Kyle’s illustrates the profound need for open conversations around mental health and the importance of breaking down stigmas within first responder agencies. By sharing his journey, Kyle hopes to show others that reaching out is a sign of strength and resilience, not weakness.

The foundation invites individuals and organizations to get involved in various ways:

• Donate: Financial contributions help fund adventure therapy sessions, respite stays, and counseling services.

• Nominate a First Responder: If you know a first responder or family in need of support, nominate them for the foundation’s services.

• Spread the Word: Share the foundation’s message on social media or through your community networks, helping to reach those who need these resources most.

The Partner Foundation has launched an innovative “Chip In” program, inviting the community to show gratitude to first responders while supporting the foundation’s mission. “Chips” can be purchased at select Partners around town such as Rocky River Coffee Co. in Harrisburg, NC, and comes imprinted with a scannable barcode for easy participation in quarterly raffles featuring donated items.

Individuals can buy chips to give directly to first responders, thanking them for their commitment and dedication and show their appreciation in a meaningful way. Proceeds from these sales support the foundation’s outreach efforts and provide direct aid to those who protect our communities.

Community businesses and corporations can also get involved by sponsoring the chips and donating services, products, or gift cards to the foundation’s Pay-It-Forward initiative. These contributions help provide thank-you packages, adventure therapy trips, and other forms of support for responders and their families, all at no cost to them.