Vince Pashko, a firefighter in St. Albert, has been nationally recognized for his work in mental health.
Vince was one of 20 recipients of the 2023 Champion of Mental Health Award, courtesy of the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment.
“Vince brings over 20 years of fire and paramedic service experience to the City of St. Albert and has shown exceptional insight into the challenges of his profession and the importance of resilience and self-care,” wrote the City of St. Albert in a release. ”Since 2023, Vince assumed a newly established role as the Mental Health Coordinator at the City and has worked to significantly bolster mental health support within the Emergency Services Department, prioritizing the well-being of his colleagues and challenging mental health misconceptions within the public safety sector.”
The city also mentioned that Pashko has supported the Before Occupational Stress program and advocating for the expansion of existing programs such as peer support and peer fitness.
“The city congratulates Vince Pashko on receiving this significant Champion of Mental Health Award and thank him for his leadership in making mental health support a priority for our first responders,” said Mayor Cathy Heron. “His work and collaboration with internal and external partners are essential and reflects the City’s commitment to supporting mental health initiatives for those who keep our community safe 24 hours a day.”
The Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment is based out of Regina and receives about 200 nominations each year for their awards program.
