A police officer in uniform looks contemplatively to the side with emergency vehicles blurred in the background.
About Heal the Hero

Heal the Hero is on a mission to transform mental health services for first responders, veterans, and other heroes across the country. We work with leaders across government, military, and public service to consider mental health resilience a critical priority– both as an investment in their wellbeing, and in creating healthier, safer communities. We are committed to providing funding for innovative technology-based programming to lead the way in our vision of reimagined mental health services.


Our Approach To Mental Health Is A Technology-Driven Initiative

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Our Story

Standing with America’s Heroes

Since 2015, Heal the Hero Foundation has been dedicated to funding life-changing programs for first responders, veterans, and survivors—individuals who embody courage and sacrifice. Our founder, Lou Schwartz, was driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility. After learning the devastating statistics on veteran suicides, speaking with those living with PTSD, and realizing how many go without help, Lou knew he had to act. His unwavering belief in the potential of every person—and his desire to help those impacted by trauma—led to the creation of Heal the Hero Foundation.

 

Our journey began with veterans—many of whom had transitioned into roles as first responders, while others faced significant challenges reintegrating into civilian life due to the trauma of military service. Determined to make a difference, we partnered with Vitanya Brain Performance to deliver science-based solutions that help veterans and first responders overcome these challenges. Through this collaboration, we’ve seen lives transformed, restoring balance and hope for those who serve and protect.

 

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The Reason

Mental Health Challenges and Suicide in First Responders

First responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, face significant mental health challenges due to the nature of their work. These challenges include high rates of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. The intense and often traumatic experiences they encounter can lead to long-term psychological effects, impacting their personal and professional lives.
 

Suicide Rates:

  • Law enforcement officers and firefighters are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty.
  • EMS workers are 1.39 times more likely to die by suicide than the general public.
  • Studies have found that between 17% and 24% of public safety telecommunicators have symptoms of PTSD, and 24% have symptoms of depression.

 

Contributing Factors:

  • The constant exposure to traumatic events and the high-stress environment can normalize trauma, making it harder to recognize the toll on mental health.
  • Relationship problems, challenging work schedules, and extreme family-work demands can magnify stress and contribute to mental health issues.
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Our Team

The people driving Heal the Hero bring passion and purpose to the work.

Board of Directors

  • Joseph Holmes
    President/CEO

    Read Bio

  • Tonia Schwartz
    Treasurer

    Read Bio

  • Jonathan Klingler
    Board Member

Our Staff

  • Jerry Holmes
    Military Advisor

    Read Bio

  • Dr. Mike Farber PhD.
    Department Liaison

  • Scot Neville
    Finance Advisor

    Read Bio
Professional headshot of Lou Schwartz with gray hair and beard wearing a checkered sport coat over a light blue dress shirt.
In Memoriam

Lou Schwartz was a compassionate spirit and had the ability to listen with empathy. After discovering the tragic statistics of veteran suicides, sitting down with people that had PTSD and learning of the millions that don’t get or seek help; he knew he had to do something.  Lou had the remarkable ability to to see the best in other and wanted to help heal those that were impacted.

He used his passion and skills to found one of his greatest professional projects
– Heal the Hero Foundation.

 

Lou’s hard work and legacy will continue on and help others as the foundation he founded continues to expand and improve the lives of our

Program Partners

We welcome the opportunity to explore new partnerships.
Contact Us
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