Peer Support Members Recognized For Their Work Behind the Scenes

The Madison Fire Department Peer Support Team is a small but instrumental network of active and retired members who work behind the scenes to support the emotional and mental health needs of fellow department personnel. The team and its resources are available to both commissioned and non-commissioned staff.

The City of Madison Employee Assistance Program (EAP) recently sponsored an awards ceremony to recognize members of the MFD Peer Support Team for the crucial work that they do. This year's honorees were:

'Cruising It and Crushing It' Award

Firefighter/Paramedic Amanda Engelhart

This award recognizes a peer support member who has provided excellent care during check-ins, is seen as a trusted and respected resource for outside support, and advocates and collaborates for the coordination of debriefings. 

'Consider It Done' Award

Apparatus Engineer (retired) Joe Ellingson

This award is given to a peer support member who can be relied upon for getting work done and is not afraid to face the challenges of multiple simultaneous demands.

'Rockstar Rookie' Award

Lieutenant Pat Howe

This award is given to a new member of the team who has provided exceptional work and brought in strong energy and commitment to their role.

The MFD Peer Support Team was established in 2018. In the years since its inception, the team has seen an increase of utilization as members of the department have recognized its benefits and embraced its support.

Congratulations to the above honorees, and thank you to all of our Peer Support Members for all that you do!