The Maryland Fire Chiefs Association is pleased to announce the availability of grant funded scholarships for our members to attend the 1st Responder conference on mental health and wellness, scheduled for March 30-31, 2023, in Ocean City, Maryland. The Maryland Fire Chiefs Association (MFCA), with funds from the SAFER Grant, is sponsoring several scholarship opportunities for Maryland Fire Service Personnel to attend the conference. The scholarship will reimburse recipients up to $478 for the conference registration and hotel expenses ($89/night). There is no provision for per diem (food).
This is a reimbursement scholarship, which means all costs will need to be paid for in advanced by the recipient. Scholarship recipients will be required to submit all their receipts at the conclusion of the conference for reimbursement up to the eligible amount. In addition, as part of the reimbursement process, attendees will be required to provide the MFCA Training Committee with a one-page synopsis of what they learned in the course and how they will share such information with their department and/or jurisdiction.
Individuals applying for the scholarship must be a current volunteer member in good standing of a Maryland volunteer fire, rescue and/or EMS company. The MFCA Training Committee would like to encourage everyone to apply for this scholarship opportunity. If you are interested in applying for a scholarship to attend the 1st Responder conference on mental health and wellness please complete the attached Scholarship Application and email it to scholarships@mdchief.org. All completed and signed scholarship applications must be received no later than 5:00 PM on January 31, 2023.
Once applications have been reviewed, you will be notified by the MFCA Grant Coordinator of your selection status and procedures for reimbursement.
To find out more information about the conference please visit this link.
1st Responder Conferences is committed to the emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of public safety professionals and we work with leaders in the public safety professions to make this possible. We recognize that first responders are our greatest asset, and we feel it is our responsibility to create a climate that supports wellness and resiliency. We are dedicated to promoting awareness surrounding the difficulties of the profession and inspiring conversations that minimize the stigma associated with the stress our first responders’ experience. We provide education, mental health tools and resources for agencies, individuals, and family members. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for all who dedicate themselves to protecting and serving others. 1st Responder Conferences partners with nonprofit organizations like First H.E.L.P. and ICISF. We work together to make sure all first responders get the resources they need to live a happy and healthy life!
