Day 4: Thank you to those who search for us when we are lost.
A national celebration of first responders kicks off today with 10 days of gratitude to recognise the exceptional service that first responders provide to all Australians.
The 10 days precede Thank a First Responder Day on Wednesday 11 June, a national day of gratitude that recognises the sacrifices first responders and their families make every day to keep the community safe.
Now in its sixth year, Thank a First Responder Day creates a clear and resounding voice of gratitude for the frontline workers and volunteers who do so much, often for very little thanks or recognition. It was created by Fortem Australia, the nation’s leading independent and not-for-profit organisation supporting the mental health and wellbeing of first responders and their families.
“We know that feeling appreciated and valued is important for our wellbeing,” Fortem CEO Michael Willing APM said.
“The simple act of saying thanks for the challenging, traumatic and often dangerous work our first responders do will ensure these dedicated men and women know that they are recognised, appreciated and valued by the communities they protect.”
Starting today, Fortem will be sending a special shout out to all first responders, their families and others who support them, and asks the community to join in that gratitude.
- Day 1: Thank you to those who are there when disaster strikes.
- Day 2: Thank you to those keep us safe on the water.
- Day 3: Thank you to those who respond on the roads.
- Day 4: Thank you to those who search for us when we are lost.
- Day 5: Thank you to the furry friends who help keep us safe.
- Day 6: Thank you to those who must deliver the worst news.
- Day 7: Thank you to the first responder families who sacrifice so much.
- Day 8: Thank you to those who are there both day and night.
- Day 9: Thank you to those who respond from the air.
- Day 10: Thank you to those who take our emergency calls.
A range of events and other activities will be taking place throughout the 10 days of gratitude and on Thank a First Responder Day to recognise and thank our first responders.
To find an event or to leave a message of gratitude to first responders, visit www.thankafirstresponderday.org.au
Thank a First Responder Day also serves as Fortem Australia’s key annual fundraising campaign. Funds raised helping Fortem to deliver a holistic range of social connection, clinical, career management and mental health literacy services for eligible first responders and their families. As a not-for-profit organisation, Fortem relies on donations, partnerships and grants to deliver this important work.