Quarterly Impact Snapshot
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Since January 1, 2026, Project Ebenezer has connected with 20 first responders seeking support in their mental health journey.
- 15 were referred by fellow first responders — a powerful reflection of trust within the community
- 5 came through direct connections with our board
- 9 are currently receiving ongoing financial assistance for mental health care
Each number represents a life, a family, and a story that matters. Because of your support, these responders are not facing their battles alone.
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The Need Behind the Mission
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Mental health care is not one-size-fits-all—and neither is the cost.
For some first responders, a therapy session may cost a $25 copay. For many others, especially those serving in volunteer, reserve, or small-town roles, the cost ranges from $50 to $200 per appointment.
When you factor in weekly or bi-weekly sessions, psychiatric care, and medication, the financial burden quickly becomes overwhelming. Too often, this becomes a barrier to getting help.
Your support helps remove that barrier making healing accessible when it’s needed most.
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How We Show Up: Beyond Financial Support
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While financial assistance is critical, our mission goes far beyond covering costs.
We walk alongside first responders in tangible, consistent ways:
- Covering therapy sessions, psychiatric appointments, and medication costs
- Providing transportation to appointments when a little extra support and encouragement is needed
- Conducting regular check-ins and follow-up calls
- Attending church services with responders when requested
- Supporting spouses and children through conversation and care
- Meeting with department leadership when appropriate
- Offering accountability and encouragement throughout the healing process
We believe being a Stone of Help means showing up, not just once, but over and over again.
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It is hard to capture Project Ebenezer's impact in just a few paragraphs. No matter how much data Project Ebenezer tracks, I don't think any of us can fully understand the impact and ripple effect that the Project Ebenezer team has had and continues to have on our community. They have told their stories, and in doing so, shifted a culture, making it okay for the rest of us to also admit that we are all human.
Responding to a critical incident and general work stress caused me to have increased anxiety, irritability, and trouble concentrating. I was not choosing healthy coping skills and I thought that I was holding it all together until a coworker encouraged me to talk to Project Ebenezer. They connected me directly and immediately to a psychiatrist. I was skeptical that the psychiatrist would prescribe medications I did not want, but, instead, she understood me and encouraged me to help create a game plan with her. Later on, I went through a major event that physically and mentally wrecked me for a while. I was so thankful that Project Ebenezer had already connected me to the services I needed before that event happened.
I have personally witnessed Project Ebenezer immediately respond to and support coworkers in crisis when they did not want anyone else to know they were struggling.
-A First Responder in Kosciusko County
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Community Response & Support
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In January 2026, our community experienced a heartbreaking loss with the passing of Jacob “Jake” Amos, a Lutheran EMS paramedic and Burket Volunteer Firefighter.
Jake’s death by suicide was a sobering reminder of the unseen weight many first responders carry, the cumulative trauma, the silent battles, and the toll of unhealthy coping mechanisms.
In the wake of this tragedy, something important happened:
conversations began.
First responders started reaching out. Walls came down. Stories were shared. And many took their first steps toward healing.
We honor Jake by continuing this work with urgency, compassion, and purpose.
Following Jake’s passing, Project Ebenezer was called upon to support not only his family, but also the first responders at Lutheran EMS and Burket Fire.
We were honored to:
- Provide direct support to responders and the Amos family
- Be present during the viewing and funeral and provide direct access to mental health resources on site
- Offer guidance and care during a time of deep grief
In moments like these, being a Stone of Help means standing in the gap, quietly, consistently, and compassionately.
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Healing in Action: Partnership Spotlight
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One of the most meaningful responses following this tragedy was our partnership with Magical Meadows.
Together, we hosted a healing event for first responders that included:
- Therapeutic horseback riding
- Guided journaling and personal reflection
- Time together around a campfire
- A shared meal in a safe, supportive environment with mental health professionals present
This space allowed responders to begin processing grief in a healthy and meaningful way.
We are also looking forward to the completion of the First Responder and Veteran Barn, which will expand opportunities for equine-assisted healing in the future.
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Wellness Wednesday: Behind the Uniform
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This quarter, we launched Wellness Wednesday: Behind the Uniform, a 9-part video series designed to bring honest conversations about mental health into the open.
Each week features:
- First responders sharing real experiences
- Mental health professionals providing insight and guidance
🎥 Watch a sample of one of our featured videos below!
You can follow the full series on our Facebook page or on YouTube at “Project Ebenezer.”
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Training, Outreach, & What's Ahead
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We are continuing to expand our reach through training and leadership development:
- Officer Wellness Training – Kosciusko County Reserve Academy (May 19)
- Crisis Intervention Training – Warsaw, IN (May 19)
- K21 Helping Heroes Pickleball Tournament and Kids Fest- Winona Lake, IN (July 18-19)
- First 3-Day First Responder Retreat – Coming Fall 2026
These opportunities allow us to equip departments and individuals with the tools they need to prioritize mental wellness.
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Join the Mission: Be a Stone of Help
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Currently, Project Ebenezer operates entirely through donations and event sponsorships.
As we continue working toward long-term sustainability, one thing remains clear:
This mission is only possible because of you.
Every donation, every partnership, and every shared message helps us continue providing care to those who serve others every day.
There are many ways to stand with us:
- Give financially to support a first responder’s care
- Share our mission with your network
- Invite us to speak at your events
- Become a sponsor for our fundraising events or donate a raffle item
- Pray, encourage, and advocate for first responders
Together, we can continue to be a Stone of Help, a steady presence in the lives of those who need it most.
Thank you for supporting and investing in the lives of the Kosciusko County First Responders.
With deep gratitude,
Paige Wood
President
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