About Unpack the Bag
Our Mission
Unpack the Bag strengthens the mental health and resilience of first responders by equipping them with evidence-based resources, specialized training, and compassionate guidance. We empower departments to build sustainable wellness programs through pre-incident education, family support, and stress-management tools. We also work to secure and provide critical funding for mental health services.
Our Vision
We envision a world where every first responder has access to the mental health support they need before, during, and after the call. Through compassionate care, practical tools, and sustainable funding, Unpack the Bag strives to transform peer support into a foundation of wellness in every department.
Why It Matters
Founded from a deep understanding of the unique stressors and mental health challenges faced by emergency personnel, our organization exists to support the people who serve our communities every day. Whether it’s law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics/EMTs, or dispatchers, first responders often confront trauma, loss, and high-pressure situations without always having the resources to process what they endure.
Unpack the Bag was created to fill that gap.
We provide peer support teams and departments with customizable tools, educational resources, and structured guidance to help departments build sustainable mental wellness programs. Our work extends beyond templates. We advocate for mental health funding, promote early intervention, and foster a culture where seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
At the heart of our mission is a simple truth: Behind every badge is a human being who deserves care, connection, and healing.
We’re here to make sure no one has to unpack alone.
Join Our Movement
Whether you’re looking to:
- Bring mental health awareness training to your department
- Become a trainer of this class through our train-the-trainer course
- Partner in supporting first responder mental health
- Learn more about our programs
We’re here to help create lasting change in emergency services culture.
Because no one should have to carry their weight alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988 or your local crisis line. You matter.