The new partnership aims to destigmatize mental health resources and offer support to law enforcement who respond to traumatic events.
ST CHARLES, Mo. — Traumatic events that police officers witness impact them long after a scene is cleared, according to St. Charles’ Interim Police Chief George Grove.
Former law enforcement officer Matt Frkovic agreed, which is why he started The 10-78 Project, a nonprofit focused on supporting the mental health of police following critical incidents.
St. Charles became the first city in the country to formally contract with the nonprofit on Thursday, a move that will open up access to rapid-response support for police following critical incidents, including counseling, peer support, and resources for their families, according to a press release from city officials.
“This partnership represents a proactive step in ensuring that those who serve the community are supported in return,” the press release said. “By investing in officer wellness and reducing the stigma around mental health, the City of St. Charles is reinforcing its commitment to a strong, resilient police force—one that is equipped not only to respond to critical incidents, but to recover from them.”
The city made the partnership official on Thursday, when Mayor Dan Borgmeyer formally signed the partnership following testimony from Officers Daniel Ryan and Joseph Garner, who personally received support from 10-78 following a critical incident.
Ryan said last May he and Garner were involved in a police shooting that resulted in a death. He said the personalized care he received from 10-78 after the event, including phone calls, care packages, and other resources, left a real and lasting impact.
“Their willingness to walk alongside us during one of the hardest moments of our lives helped us begin to process it,” Ryan said.