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2026 First Responder Wellness Conference
Venue: 108-109 clear filter
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Wednesday, September 2
 

12:30pm EDT

The Weight We Carry: Through the Lens of a Survivor; Trauma, Grief, Resilience and Wellness for Those Who Serve
Wednesday September 2, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
Your shift will never be the same. Mine wasn’t either. First responders are equipped to respond to crisis after crisis, but are we equipped to handle the ongoing and cumulative effects of trauma, grief, loss, and survivor’s guilt? These jobs and our desire to serve others often cause us to carry an invisible weight. We try to do this on our own because we believe it’s expected of us. We aren’t taught how to manage the emotional impact of our work, which leads to poor decision-making, broken relationships, physical ailments, and an overall decrease in wellness.
This powerful session covers professional and lived experience related to the unseen trauma survivors experience, as well as the hidden impact traumatic events have on those who serve. Through personal experiences and professional practice as a military veteran, homicide and suicide loss survivor, nationally credentialed victim advocate, and trauma professional; Scharnelle Hamlin will guide attendees through a realistic but compassionate discussion around cumulative trauma, resilience, healing, and seeking help without shame.
Learn about survivor’s guilt, secondary traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, and how to leverage cultural humility and trauma-informed practices to help others without compromising your own wellness. Remember that healing isn’t weakness; it’s one of the strongest things you’ll ever do. 
Speakers
avatar for Scharnelle Hamlin

Scharnelle Hamlin

Homicide Support Group Coordinator, Virginia Victim Assistance Network
Wednesday September 2, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
108-109

2:30pm EDT

Financial Wellness for First Responders
Wednesday September 2, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
Join us for an in-depth session tailored to law enforcement officers, covering key financial strategies for retirement, wealth management, and more. Attendees will gain essential financial knowledge to help them manage their money with confidence. They will learn practical steps to prepare for a secure retirement, along with clear strategies for navigating taxes, income planning, and building long‑term wealth. Throughout the session, participants will benefit from guidance shared by an experienced professional, who will offer insights to support informed decision‑making and lasting financial well‑being.
Speakers
MT

Matthew Tuttle

Business Development Associate, Financial Growth Partners
Wednesday September 2, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
108-109
 
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