Bless the Badge Conference

Conference to support law enforcement spouses set July 23 in Brownwood Free event offers tools for communication, wellness The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office in Brown County is cohosting a conference with Bless the Badge to educate and support law enforcement spouses on July 23. The Tactical Relationship Training event will be held 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in Brownwood. The address will be released to participants once registered. The event is open to all spouses, they need not live in the area. There is no cost to attend but tickets must be requested in advance on the Bless the Badge website at www.blessthebadge.net. Free childcare will be provided. “It’s proven that healthy home lives result in better policing in our communities,” said Courtney Parrott, AgriLife Extension family and community health agent for Brown County. She said with a divorce rate over 70%, officer families must be intentional about understanding the impacts of the job at home. This includes stress related to physical threats, organizational pressures, shifts and workloads and financial matters. “Bless The Badge provides resources and tools for couples to learn how to proactively thrive, instead of simply surviving,” she said. “The conference aims to support, equip and encourage spouses.” Topics covered Participants will learn tools to successfully navigate some of the challenges faced by officers and their families. These will include: • Mental wellness • Communication • Resilience • Partnership • Parenting • Hyper vigilance Community sponsors Local organizations sponsoring the event include Crime Stoppers, Brownwood Municipal Police Association, Brownwood County Sherriff’s Officer Association and Bostick Auto and Truck. Others may get involved by contacting Bless the Badge at brownwood@blessthebadge.net.