We are …

 … the “Hidden Partners.” ®

First responders, which include police officers, firefighters, correctional officers, emergency medical technicians, and dispatchers, face unique challenges in dealing with critical incidents but they also face unique personal and family challenges. Working holidays and nights, multiple days away from home and call outs are just some of the on-going challenges faced by first responder families. When you add the stress of being involved in a critical incident and the normal stresses faced by all families, (finances, health, childcare, etc) it can be overwhelming. Most first responder spouses and partners don’t know where to turn for help. They watch as the responder isolates, shutting off from loved ones, or engages in other problematic behaviors and wonder, “is there anyone out there that understands what I am experiencing?” 

Although we were assured of support as we sat through orientation when our husbands were offered the job, we know from personal experience that something such as a shootout or other altercation can happen that will shake you and your husband to the very core and you may not hear from any of the department family. You or he may be struck with a debilitating illness or have a serious accident and you may not hear from any of the department family. 

Join our organization and you will hear from us! We will be there for you! The SOCO family is HUGE with over 2,000 responders and growing. Together we can build a network of wives and families who will be there for each other. 

Our “first responder wife” personality sometimes lets us think we can handle any situation and that we don’t need any help. We can suffer from stress, anxiety, lack of intimacy, as well as PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) as we deal with issues associated with “the job.” You may be surprised what a hug, a long talk, a prayer, a get-together with other wives, or a meal brought for your family will do for you! 

We know – WE’VE BEEN THERE! Let us help. Send us an email or fill out our membership form. We will respond ASAP! 

If you’ve also “been there,” please consider becoming an Association Mentor and supporting other wives. Mentors have been married to a first responder at least 5 years and will make themselves available as part of a rotating team to make phone calls, emails and/or visits in times of need to other member and non-member wives.