Our Mission Statement
Our mission is to support the health and wellness of Interagency Hotshot Crews and wildland firefighters.
We empower wildland firefighters to excel both on and off the fireline by offering personal development opportunities, health and wellness resources, and dedicated advocacy. Our mission is to foster a culture of growth, proactive care, and accessible support, equipping firefighters with the tools they need to thrive in every aspect of their lives.
Based in Portland, OR, we are a registered non-profit organization currently pending 501(c)(3) staus.
Our Story
Wildland firefighters endure immense physical, mental, and emotional challenges daily, working in some of the most dangerous and high-stress environments. Yet, the culture of strength and self-reliance often prevents them from seeking help, leading to devastating consequences. Suicide rates among wildland firefighters are at an all-time high, outpacing any other first responder demographic. Chronic stress, burnout, substance abuse, and isolation are all too common, with limited tailored resources to address these unique struggles. The gap in support for these brave individuals is glaring, leaving many to navigate their battles alone.
Hotshot Wellness was created to change this. Founded by current and former hotshot firefighters, we’ve seen firsthand the toll this work takes and the inadequacy of traditional resources. Our mission is to provide holistic, evidence-based wellness resources tailored specifically to the demands of wildland firefighting—tools rooted in teamwork, resilience, and dedication, the same values that define a Hotshot Crew.
While our initial focus is on supporting Hotshot Crews, our goal is to ensure every firefighter has access to the support they need to thrive physically, mentally, and spiritually. This mission is personal because we know this community’s strength and its readiness for change. It’s time to break the cycle, eliminate the stigma, and ensure that no firefighter is left behind.
Our Initiatives
Adventure Resiliency Program
A program supporting wildland firefighters (WLFFs) with therapeutic retreats designed to foster resilience, mental health, and community. These nature-based experiences include activities like backpacking, surfing, hunting, and horseback riding, offering participants an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and reconnect. Guided by qualified mental health practitioners and compassionate peers, the program equips WLFFs with tools to manage the physical and emotional toll of their profession, empowering them to thrive both on and off the fireline.
Wellness Leadership Award
The Wellness Leadership Award is being developed to recognize individuals within the Interagency Hotshot Crew community who demonstrate exceptional leadership, resilience, and a commitment to wellness. The goal is to celebrate these individuals while fostering a culture of resilience, leadership, and wellness among Hotshot Crews, inspiring others to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives.
Wildland Fire Personal Development Scholarship
Empowering wildland firefighters (WLFFs) through targeted financial aid, this scholarship supports access to wellness resources like gym memberships, mindfulness retreats, nutrition coaching, and holistic education. The program focuses on advancing personal growth, community impact, and resilience, helping WLFFs build strength, enhance well-being, and achieve their goals during and beyond fire season.
Events and Initiatives for WLFFs
From our flagship Wildland Fire Wellness Summit to a variety of creative fundraisers and activities, we focus on building health, resilience, and camaraderie within the wildland fire community. Our events include bikepacking trips, snowboarding days, climbing events, and more, offering unique ways to connect and recharge. We also partner with other organizations to host fun, safe, and authentic experiences tailored to the needs of wildland firefighters, creating spaces for growth and support.
Tailored Social Media Content
Curated, evidence-based posts designed to engage, educate, and connect the WLFF community. Our content focuses on fitness, recovery, mental health, and tips for thriving in this challenging line of work. We collaborate with researchers and practitioners to advance WLFF health and wellness, ensuring our posts are both impactful and informed.
Evidence-Based Education & Advocacy
Providing science-backed guidance and raising awareness to support WLFF health and wellness. Our aim is twofold: to advocate for the mental and physical health of wildland firefighters and to educate the general public about the unique challenges and demands of this profession.
