Local first responders gathered at 22 Wing CFB North Bay on October 15 for the second annual Strength in Service Wellness Symposium, an event dedicated to prioritizing mental health and wellness, strengthening resilience, and promoting a culture of support among those who serve in the North Bay area
Strength in Service is a collaborative initiative uniting local police, fire, EMS, dispatch, and corrections partners to advance wellness, resilience, and peer connection among first responders. The symposium focuses on creating a safe, supportive space to share experiences, learn practical tools, and strengthen the collective well-being of those who protect and serve our communities
The symposium welcomed more than 150 attendees and featured 13 community vendors showcasing local services and re
A highlight of the event was keynote speaker Sergeant Jason Bonikowsky, a 26-year veteran of Waterloo Regional Police Service, who shared his lived experience navigating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and recovery from addictions. His presentation explored how these experiences shaped his mindset and approach to resilience, recovery and officer wellness, reinforcing the importance of open conversations about mental health and adequate access to support.
“Events like this are so necessary, especially as we continue to recognize the importance of building resilience and supporting members as they navigate recovery from a stress injury,” said Julie Lavictoire, Wellness Coordinator of the North Bay Police Service in a release
“We are grateful to have a space where we can speak openly and vulnerably about the experiences first responders share. These connections help us build bridges between our services and strengthen the support available to all our members.”
The symposium brought together partners from across the first responder community, including North Bay Fire and Emergency Services, Beyond the Blue North Bay, Nipissing District Paramedic Services, North Bay Police Service, Chat4Chad, North Bay Jail, North Bay OPP, Military Police, Anishinabek Police Service and North Bay Regional Health Centre
The collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to ensuring local first responders have access to the reenges of their work
“The tremendous amount of work and collaboration that went into this event is a testament to what we can accomplish together to support our members,” said Chief Daryl Longworth of the North Bay Police Service
“Seeing everyone united around the wellness of first responders is encouraging. By learning from past mistakes and acknowledging difficult realities, we can continue working toward safer workplaces where the wellness of each member is prioritized and every member feels seen, heard and supported. Which in turn means we can better serve this community.”
Through shared experiences, practical learning and meaningful connections, the Strength in Service Wellness Symposium aims to help break down stigma surrounding mental health and reinforce that seeking support is an important part of resilience
