FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 26, 2022
Hath’s Heroes and Mindful Junkie Deliver Mindfulness Training to D.C.-Area First Responders
First of its kind partnership, delivers Tactical Brain Training ® (TBT) to DC Fire and EMS employees; TBT empowers first responders to better handle work-based trauma
First Responders spend all their time helping others; Mindfulness training and TBT are designed to allow them to help themselves.
ARLINGTON, Va. – Hath’s Heroes, a program launched by Garnet and Lindsay Hathaway, announced today a first-of-its-kind collaboration with the nonprofit Mindful Junkie to provide mindfulness training to D.C. area first responders. Through the partnership, Hath’s Heroes will fund multiple Mindful Junkie seminars led by Mindful Junkie founder Gina Rollo White. The trainings will be made available to all firefighters within DC Fire and EMS and will deliver Tactical Brain Training® (TBT).
"The work Gina does is exactly the kind of support we hope to give to many first responders in the DMV area,” said Garnet. “We are thrilled to have found an organization with a mission that aligns so well with Hath's Heroes."
The mission of Mindful Junkie is to make mindfulness accessible for first responders. Mindful Junkie workshops introduce first responders to the science and practice of mindfulness. The organization gives first responders tools to deal with stress and trauma, as well as to increase focus and concentration. Programming teaches first responders how to manage reactions, notice impulses and work through emotions, both on the job and at home.
“Firefighters and other first responders are constantly focused on others and constantly giving.” said Rollo White, CEO and Founder of Mindful Junkie. “The Hathaways and I bonded immediately on our common familial first responder connections, and we are excited to have the chance to collaborate to give back to this amazing group of women and men.”
The first training took place in November, with additional workshops scheduled in 2022. First responders who participated in the November training were hosted by Hath’s Heroes at the Capitals Dec. 6 First Responders Night at Capital One Arena.
“Trauma aware regulation tools are key for stress management, coping, and conflict resolution,” said Jason Woods, Peer Support Team Coordinator for DC Fire and EMS. “We are excited to be working with Hath’s Heroes and Mindful Junkie on this innovative Mindfulness Program.”
The Hathaways founded Hath's Heroes in 2019 to give back to first responders. Garnet’s great-grandfather, Garnet Mcelroy, was a firefighter in Winnipeg, and his experiences inspired the Hathaways to launch Hath's Heroes.
Most recently, Hath’s Heroes provided thousands of meals to first responders and families affiliated with area nonprofits during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hathaways also provide tickets to select Capitals games to local first responders. Postgame, Garnet meets the ticket recipients and gives them a tour of the Capitals locker room. In addition to donating tickets, Garnet visits local fire stations throughout the season and spends time with first responders.
Contacts:
Capitals: Megan Eichenberg – 202-266-2310
Mindful Junkie: Gina Rollo White – 202-306-6578
