They may not be first on the scene, but their work has lasting, life-saving results. Now, second responders are being honored for their efforts through a special “Second Responders Day” on September 1, 2021, including a resolution of support from the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG).
Second responders provide support to individuals and families in the wake of a crisis, including access to safe shelter and housing, employment, food, and other community resources. Today, the MAG Regional Council approved a resolution supporting September 1, 2021, as Second Responders Day.
“A second responder helps put a life back together following a crisis,” said MAG Regional Council Chair John Giles, mayor of Mesa. “This is an opportunity for us to say ‘thank you’ to the human services heroes who work behind the scenes every day to help those in need.”
Second responders, who include staff from both the public and private sectors, have been especially important during the pandemic. Some of their activities include:
- Outreaching to people experiencing homelessness in the deadly summer heat.
- Providing meals and wellness checks for home-bound older adults.
- Providing counseling and mental health services to those in crisis.
- Providing assistance with housing search and stabilization.
- Ensuring families do not go hungry.
- Helping domestic violence victims safety plan so that they can flee violence.
- Providing transportation to medical appointments.
- Assisting with securing jobs.
- Finding unique ways to serve the public during the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19.
Other communities throughout the Valley also are supporting the effort through similar resolutions declaring Sept. 1 as Second Responders Day.
