Introduction

The Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission ("WSCJTC” and/or the “Commission”) is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) pursuant to RCW 39.26 for the purpose of soliciting proposals from skilled and qualified entities interested in developing and administering a comprehensive 40-hour training program for first responder peer supporters.

Mission and Background

The mission of the Washington State First Responder Wellness Program is to assist first response agencies across the state with their efforts to foster positive mental and physical well-being amongst their personnel, with the goal of eliminating occurrences of job-related post-traumatic stress and suicide. This program recognizes first responders as law enforcement officers, corrections officers, limited authority law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency services dispatchers and recordkeepers, emergency medical personnel, coroners/medical examiners, and others identified in RCW 5.60.060.6(b). This program also acknowledges that the wellness of first responders is influenced by factors that extend beyond the workplace and attempts to incorporate tools and resources to address all aspects of a first responder’s life, including areas such as support from organizational executives, physical fitness, family relationships and personal finances. The greatest tools that first response agencies can use to foster wellness amongst their personnel are: 1) a comprehensive, agency sponsored and supported employee wellness program, and 2) a fully functional peer support team. Offering a comprehensive peer support training program at the state level will help agencies across the state establish and maintain some of the foundational pieces needed to keep their personnel healthy and psychologically well.

Visit WEBS to register or to receive additional information on this bidding opportunity. Customer Reference No. FY25 Peer Support