Greensboro Fire Department Welcomes New Therapy Canine to Support Firefighters’ Mental Health

The Greensboro Fire Department is adding its newest member - a female therapy canine. With a generous donation from the Joseph M. Bryan Foundation, the Greensboro Firefighters Foundation purchased the canine for the Greensboro Fire Department.

This initiative marks a major step forward in the department's continued efforts to promote emotional resilience and mental health among firefighters.

"Firefighters experience some of life's most stressful and traumatic moments," said Fire Chief Jim Robinson. "The addition of our therapy canine provides a meaningful way to help our members decompress and take care of their mental and emotional health. We're grateful to the Greensboro Firefighters Foundation for making this possible."

Clinical evidence has shown that therapy canines can reduce stress, anxiety, and blood pressure among those who have faced trauma. The Greensboro Fire Department Therapy Canine Program will be utilized to:

• Promote the mental and emotional well-being of employees by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Respond after potentially traumatic events to provide emotional support and comfort to firefighters and their families.
• Assist in improving morale across the department.
• Participate in other official duties or community engagement events as directed by the Fire Chief.

The new therapy canine's name will be chosen by the community, with input collected through the Greensboro Fire Department's social media outlets.

The Greensboro Firefighters Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, purchased the therapy canine as part of its mission to enhance the well-being of Greensboro's firefighters and strengthen community connections. The Foundation's support is built on three core pillars:

1. Physical & Mental Health - Providing resources and programs that promote firefighter wellness, including access to mental health support and recovery tools.
2. Community Outreach - Building meaningful relationships between the fire department and the community through education, engagement, and outreach initiatives.
3. Recognition & Morale - Honoring the dedication, service, and bravery of Greensboro's firefighters to promote a culture of pride and excellence.

"This program embodies all three of our Foundation's pillars," said Dr. Patricia Potter, President of the Greensboro Firefighters Foundation. "Our therapy canine will support firefighter wellness, help strengthen morale, and allow us to connect with the community in new and meaningful ways."

The official name will be announced once voting is complete.

For more information about the Greensboro Firefighters Foundation or to support its initiatives, visit GreensboroFireFoundation.org.