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Fire First Responder Peer Support Go Forward Icon

Not sure where to begin? Connect with a peer!

Peer support from fellow coworkers offers a safe, understanding space for those struggling with mental health. By sharing experiences and offering mutual encouragement, coworkers provide valuable empathy, reduce feelings of isolation, and foster a sense of community. This supportive network helps individuals cope, build resilience, and prioritize their mental well-being.

  • If you are looking for Fire Peer Support, click here.
  • Visit this page to learn more about meQ and Lucet, well-being programs offered by Florida Blue.

Resources on this page are available for all full & part time employees, their family and eligible retirees. If you have any questions or need assistance, email nina.taxis@copbfl.com.

Nina Taxis, Human Resources

Nina Taxis, Human Resources

I connect employees with trusted resources and compassionate support when they need it most.

Email Nina

General Peer Support

Support starts with someone who understands. Fellow coworkers are uniquely equipped to help because they know your work environment, share similar experiences, and can offer compassionate, relatable support in a safe and confidential space.
Email a Peer Support Team member below to connect!

Garron McGee

Garron McGee

I am a COPB retiree with 26 years of service, currently working part time with Parks & Recreation.

Email Garron
Hermine Lanauze

Hermine Lanauze

Together we rise-leaning on each other for strength and understanding.

Email Hermine
JoAnn M. Zeno

JoAnn M. Zeno

I have a passion for helping people and hold a degree in Psychology from Wright State University.

Email JoAnn
Jodie Haven

Jodie Haven

I’m committed to providing a confidential, supportive space where employees feel heard, supported, and connected to resources.

Email Jodie
Kimberly Vazquez

Kimberly Vazquez

I understand the challenges of raising a child with ADHD, and am ready to lend a listening ear.

Email Kimberly
Kaitlyn Kerr

Kaitlyn Kerr

I help others by providing a safe, judgment-free space for individuals to share, connect, and grow.

Email Kaitlyn
Maciel Perez

Maciel Perez

Sometimes the most healing thing we can do for another is to simply listen.

Email Maciel
Michelle Owens

Michelle Owens

I believe "This Too Shall Pass" after the tragic loss of my son who battled with mental health.

Email Michelle
Victoria Johnson

Victoria Johnson

I’m ready to build real connections and support others-it’s not about having all the answers, but being there for each other.

Email Victoria

First Responder Peer Support

The First Responder Peer Support Team is committed to connecting first responders with the support they need, serving as a bridge to qualified, licensed mental health professionals. 

Through confidential peer support, firefighters can share experiences with colleagues who understand the unique challenges of the job, fostering resilience, reducing isolation, and promoting well-being both on and off duty.

Redline Rescue is a non-profit, operated by UCF Restores, dedicated to the mission of serving first responders and their families in times of need by connecting them to culturally competent clinicians, peer support providers and chaplains.

Email a First Responder Peer Support Team member below to connect!

Glenn Mackie

Glenn Mackie

24 years with Pompano Beach Fire Rescue, proud husband and dad of two, sports fan, and dog lover.

Email Glenn
Theresa Mackie & BB

Theresa Mackie & BB

Peer Support, Mental Health, Suicide Awareness. BB is a Certified Therapy and Crisis Response Dog

Email Theresa
Jesselynn Latino

Jesselynn Latino

Passionate about helping others in critical moments. Enjoys staying active, traveling, and spending time with loved ones.

Email Jesselynn

Meet BB | Pompano Beach Fire Rescue's Therapy K9

BB joined the Pompano Beach Peer Support Team in December 2020. His Handler is Theresa Mackie. BB is a registered Certified Therapy Dog as well an AKC Urban Good Citizen. BB visits first responders during stressful situations spreading happiness and smiles. When BB is not on duty, he loves cuddles on the couch and chasing iguanas out of his mom's garden.


 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Peer Support Program is a confidential resource designed to provide employees with emotional support, encouragement, and connection through trained peers who understand workplace stress and life challenges.
Any employee may access Peer Support services, regardless of position, department, or years of service.
Peer Support can assist with stress, anxiety, burnout, grief, relationship concerns, work-related challenges, traumatic incidents, family issues, substance use concerns, and general emotional support.
No. Peer Support is not professional counseling or therapy. Peer supporters are trained employees who provide support, listening, encouragement, and guidance to resources when needed.
Peer Support offers connection with trained coworkers who understand workplace culture and experiences. EAP services are provided by licensed professionals who offer counseling and clinical support.
Yes. Conversations with Peer Support are kept confidential except in situations involving safety concerns, threats of harm, or situations required by law or policy to be reported.
No. Supervisors are not notified when employees voluntarily contact Peer Support unless the employee requests involvement or there is a safety concern requiring action.
Employees can contact the Peer Support Team through phone, email listed on the website, and designated peer supporters.
Peer Support may offer after-hours support or provide guidance on emergency and crisis resources.
Yes. Employees may request a specific peer supporter whenever possible.
Yes. Supervisors may encourage or refer employees to Peer Support as a wellness resource.
Yes, family members may receive support, referrals, or resource information.
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or thoughts of self-harm, contact 911, call or text 988, or seek immediate emergency assistance. Peer Support is not a substitute for emergency services.
Yes. Peer supporters may provide emotional support, defusing, wellness check-ins, and connection to additional resources following critical incidents.
Yes. Peer Support can provide support, encouragement, and referrals to treatment or recovery resources.
No. Voluntarily seeking Peer Support does not negatively impact employment status, evaluations, or promotional opportunities.
Peer supporters are trained employees selected for their professionalism, empathy, communication skills, and commitment to supporting coworkers.
Peer supporters receive specialized training in active listening, crisis response, confidentiality, communication, wellness, and referral procedures.
Yes. Participation in Peer Support services is completely voluntary.
Yes. Peer supporters can connect employees with resources such as EAP services, mental health providers, crisis services, wellness programs, and community support organizations.
Employees can be nominated by fellow employees. Nominations can be sent to Nina.taxis@copbfl.com. Nominated employees will be contacted to see if there is interest. If so, nominated employees will undergo Peer Support Training.