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First responders play a crucial role in protecting and serving our communities. The demands of these professions expose them to repeated stress, critical incidents, and emotional strain—often leading to long-term mental health challenges, decreased job satisfaction, and impacts on overall wellbeing. At Suncrest PEAKS, we believe that healthy first responders make healthy communities, and we are committed to supporting those who carry the weight of keeping us safe.

Suncrest PEAKS was created to reduce the psychological burden inherent in public safety work and to ensure that every first responder has access to the care, education, and support they deserve. Our mission is carried out through four core pillars:

1. Financial Support
   We provide funding for mental health services when needed, ensuring first responders in our coverage area can access care without financial barriers standing in the way of healing and wellness.
    
2. Education & Awareness
   We offer ongoing training on mental health, wellness, and the psychological effects of trauma at both the individual and agency level. By increasing awareness and normalizing mental health conversations, we help reduce stigma and empower responders to seek help early.
    
3. Agency Consultation & Training
   We partner directly with departments to develop policies, training programs, and wellness initiatives that strengthen resilience, support organizational health, and promote long-term cultural change.
    
4. Family & Retiree Support
   We provide education and supportive resources for families and retired first responders, recognizing the unique challenges faced by loved ones who stand behind those who serve.
    

Every contribution to Suncrest PEAKS directly supports these efforts and helps us expand our ability to care for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. Your generosity allows us to make a meaningful and lasting difference in the wellbeing of first responders throughout our community.

Suncrest PEAKS: Promoting Enhanced Awareness, Knowledge, and Skills for First Responders.
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under Suncrest Psychological Services.

Suncrest Psychological Services, the parent organization of Suncrest PEAKS, was founded in 2018 to address the growing need for culturally competent mental health care and wellness programs Indiana first responders could trust. Local agencies were looking for a provider who truly understood mental health for first responders, including police mental health, firefighter wellness, EMS support, and 911 dispatcher mental health.

Dr. Dardeen, a former first responder, opened her private practice at the request of the City of Lafayette after successfully treating a city first responder following a traumatic incident. Five years later, Suncrest Psychological Services now serves 27 agencies across 23 counties in Indiana, offering first responder mental health services, first responder wellness programs, and nonprofit mental health support tailored to public safety professionals. She has added three full-time therapists, all experienced in working with first responder families and public safety agencies.

While some departments now budget for mental health programs, many smaller or rural agencies still struggle to provide ongoing care or can only fund a limited number of sessions. As the demand for mental health help Indiana first responders need continues to grow, so does the need for mental health funding for first responders, first responder crisis support, and strong local community support.

To help fill this gap, Suncrest Psychological Services established its 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Indiana—Suncrest PEAKS, a nonprofit for first responders focused on practical, accessible support. Suncrest PEAKS helps first responders and agencies by providing first responder support services, peer support for first responders, education for first responder families, and broader community wellness outreach. We also partner with Indiana charities and community members to expand resources and support.

Your donation to Suncrest PEAKS stays local and supports donate local efforts in Tippecanoe County and surrounding counties. Every contribution strengthens nonprofit mental health services, helps first responders, and allows us to support police, support firefighters, and support EMTs so they can continue to protect our communities.