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About us.

 

Our Mission

First Responder Peer Initiative was created to be available to train and support our brothers and sisters in the first responder community. This community include both current and retired firefighters, police, and 911 telecommunicators.


Our Vision

It is the vision of the organization to not only support mental heath training but also serve as a tool to bring resources together for the good of all.

 

  • Tom Howard

    FOUNDER / Executive Director

    The start of my career dates back to 1988, I was accepted as a volunteer with the Willow Springs FD. It was there that I knew that the fire service was what I was called to do. Soon after, I was working part-time for another town and was testing everywhere I could, eventually landing a job with the Village of Bridgeview. In my 6th year, I did a lateral transfer to the City of Evanston and look to retire in 2023, with 30 years of service.

    I have a diverse fire service background, starting as a volunteer and now with a large urban city. I currently serve as a Fire Apparatus Operator (Engineer) as well as a paramedic with the City of Evanston.

    It almost goes without saying that with my years of service, there has been some memorable moments, both good and bad.

    Outside of the fire service, I enjoy spending time with my family, riding my motorcycle and camping. I have two great kids, both out of college and starting in their own careers. In addition to my career in the fire service, I obtained my Masters of Divinity in 2016. Over the past few years I often fill in at smaller churches that are in need of someone to preach. While my faith is central to who I am as a person, my main purpose in being involved with mental health and peer support, is to be a trusted presence for someone in need.

  • Keith Contant

    Instructor / police lead

    I was a Police Officer for 30 years and recently retired. I am a Divorced Dad with two children, ages 18 and 25. I am currently dealing with child alcoholism and depression in my family. I am a Christian man and have been attending Calvary Church in Orland Park for the past 8 years. I am also a retired member of the Chicago Fire Department after serving 29 years on the job. I was a firearms instructor for over 18 years and am currently a CCL instructor for Illinois. I’m also a huge fan of hunting and fishing and of course the BlackHawks and Cubbies!!!

    I want to be able to reach out to fellow law enforcement officers and let them know that they have someone to talk to who can relate to the things that we deal with on and off the job. Members need to know that “I CARE” and that you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. I have always been passionate about helping people with their individual circumstances, whatever they would be. Time for me to Pay it Forward. God Bless.