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2026 First Responder Wellness Conference
Venue: 106-107 clear filter
Wednesday, September 2
 

12:30pm EDT

Exploring Recent Trends in Peer Support
Wednesday September 2, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
In this session, the facilitator and participants will discuss the recent evolution of Public Safety Peer Support. Various types of organized peer support have been practiced for nearly 50 years, and while there has been steady systems growth and updated protocol, many practices have not kept pace, and change is in order. Session topics will include a review of peer support models in use in Virginia; choosing a protocol that suits your agency and community; shifting from centralized to dispersed peers and teams; the emergence of digital interactive care platforms; Peer Support; and integration of Human Resources active personnel tracking. Bring your curiosity and an open mind—we look forward to a lively conversation!
Speakers
avatar for Kit Cummings

Kit Cummings

Law Enforcement Peer Support Specialist, Virginia Law Enforcement Assistance Program

Wednesday September 2, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
106-107

2:30pm EDT

Back on Track: CommonHealth’s Guide to a Healthy Back
Wednesday September 2, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
If you suffer from back pain, you’re not alone. Back pain is one of the most common medical problems in the United States. It is estimated that more than 16 million adults experience chronic back pain. Most back problems are not the result of a single injury but rather result from months or years of poor posture, improper body mechanics, tight or weak muscles, and a lack of overall fitness. CommonHealth’s Back on Track campaign will provide you with some simple steps to help you care for your back to prevent injury and pain.
Speakers
MG

Marylouise Gerden

CommonHealth Wellness Consultant, Virginia Department of Human Resource Management
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Cynthia Duncan

CommonHealth Wellness Consultant, Virginia Department of Human Resource Management
Wednesday September 2, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
106-107
 
Thursday, September 3
 

12:30pm EDT

Train for Thee, but Not for Me: Closing the Gap in First Responder Wellness
Thursday September 3, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
As first responders, we spend countless hours training and honing our skills and knowledge in preparation for the next call, the next patient, the next scene. The question becomes, “Why do we spend hundreds of hours preparing for the call, but little time preparing for what we carry home afterward?” This session treats responder health like any other critical piece of equipment: requiring regular maintenance, practical care, and tactical preparation. Join us to learn how to bridge the gap between caring for your community and caring for yourself.
Speakers
avatar for Kari Magner

Kari Magner

Wellness, Exercise, and Planning Specialist, Virginia Department of Health - Office of Emergency Medical Services

Thursday September 3, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
106-107

2:30pm EDT

Understanding Problem Gambling: What It Is, How to Recognize It, and How to Access Resources for the People You Serve
Thursday September 3, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
This session will introduce participants to the core concepts of how gambling can develop into a serious problem, with a focus on understanding who may be at greater risk. Attendees will learn to recognize the key signs and symptoms that often signal when gambling behavior is becoming harmful. The session will also highlight the range of resources and support services available throughout Virginia, giving participants clear pathways to help themselves or others who may be struggling.
Speakers
avatar for Anne Rogers

Anne Rogers

Problem Gambling Prevention Coordinator, Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
Anne Rogers is the Problem Gambling Prevention Coordinator at the Virginia DBHDS Office of Behavioral Health Wellness. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing all problem gambling and gaming prevention activities, including assessment, capacity building, making data-driven... Read More →
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Marie Bage

Substance Use Treatment Administrator, Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
Thursday September 3, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
106-107
 
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