When the Mission Follows You Home: Forum for Veterans and First Responders
About this Event
Military service and first responder careers often involve experiences that can continue affecting individuals long after the mission, emergency, or shift has ended. When the Mission Follows You Home is a community mental health and wellness forum designed to raise awareness, encourage meaningful conversations, and connect veterans, first responders, their families, and community members with valuable support and resources.
THIS EVENT IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY. REGISTRATION IS ENCOURAGED BUT NOT REQUIRED TO ATTEND. WALK-INS ARE WELCOME.
RSVPs help the San Mateo County Veteran Services Office communicate important event information, plan for accessibility and accommodation needs, and prepare appropriate seating, materials, and community resources.
During registration, you may request an accommodation to support your participation. Please submit accommodation requests by September 3.
The forum will provide a welcoming environment for open and honest conversations about trauma, mental health, recovery, and the challenges that can come with serving others. The goal is to increase awareness of available services, reduce barriers to seeking assistance, and reinforce that reaching out for support is a sign of strength.
Panel discussions will explore important topics including the differences between moral injury and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), cumulative trauma, identity after military or public-safety service, organizational culture, recognizing signs of mental health struggles, healthy coping strategies, addiction, and the recovery process.
Attendees will also learn about organizations actively supporting veterans and first responders and hear about practical approaches, services, and programs making a difference in the community. Following the presentations, participants will have an opportunity to visit informational tables, speak one-on-one with participating organizations and presenters, learn about available resources, and connect with others who understand the unique experiences of military and first responder communities.
The event is open to veterans, active-duty military personnel, active and retired first responders, family members, service providers, and all interested community members.
PARKING: Parking is available at the event venue. Additional overflow parking is available across the street at 1000 Shell Blvd., Foster City.
You may also choose during registration whether you would like to receive future updates about County programs, events, and resources. This is completely optional and is separate from communications related to this event.
Registration is not required to attend. Whether you RSVP in advance or walk in on the day of the event, you are welcome to participate.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
