This powerful community event is presented in partnership with The Sodality Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the mental well-being of first responders and their families through funding for training and mental health initiatives.
Together, The Call and the Sodality Foundation aim to elevate awareness around the emotional and psychological toll faced by firefighters and first responders, while highlighting actionable pathways for support, healing, and systemic change.
ABOUT THE EVENT
The evening will feature a screening of The Call, a documentary following firefighters as they navigate trauma, stress, and resilience in the line of duty. The film highlights the mental health challenges faced by first responders and has received recognition across multiple international film festivals for its impact and storytelling.
Following the screening, a panel discussion will bring together voices from the first responder and mental health communities to continue the conversation and highlight local resources and support systems in New Mexico.
ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS
The Call is presented by Charles English, who serves as executive producer, cinematographer and field producer, alongside director, producer, and editor Laura Boyd Owen. Together, they are an independent filmmaking team driven by a shared commitment to telling human-centered stories that spark dialogue and social awareness. Working with limited resources but a strong sense of purpose, they built The Call as a deeply personal documentary that sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by firefighters and first responders in New Mexico. Their collaborative approach blends intimate storytelling with a focus on impact, aiming to elevate voices often left unheard while fostering greater understanding, compassion, and change within the communities they portray.
ABOUT THE PANEL
Following the screening of The Call, attendees will be invited to a moderated panel discussion featuring voices from film, fire service leadership, and mental health care. The conversation will explore the real-world impact of trauma on first responders, the importance of peer and clinical support systems, and the urgent need for continued dialogue around mental health in emergency services.
The panel will be moderated by Laura Boyd Owen, Director, Producer, and Editor of The Call, and will include:
- Chief Paul Bearce (Ret.), Rio Rancho Fire and Rescue
- Lt. Robert Arrieta, Albuquerque Fire Rescue
- Heather Rist, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma and mental health care for first responders
- Dr. Jackson Williams, DBH, LPCC, behavioral health professional (participating as backup panelist)
ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP: THE SODALITY FOUNDATION
The Sodality Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to impacting the lives of first responders by providing funding assistance to ensure mental health support is accessible and prioritized.
Through community partnerships, the Foundation supports:
- Advanced peer support training
- Team and individual development programs
- Mental health initiatives tailored to department needs
ABOUT THE CALL
The Call is an award-winning documentary exploring the mental health challenges faced by firefighters and first responders, focusing on trauma, resilience, and the human cost of emergency service. Learn more: https://thecalldocumentary.com/
Photos: (Click photo to enlarge)
Source: Loki Productions LLC
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