The Sisters‑Camp Sherman Fire District is welcoming a new four‑legged member to its ranks. Therapy canine Korra recently passed the district’s certification evaluation, and her handlers, Tom and Rebecca Gilman, also cleared their handler assessments.
Supporting first‑responders’ mental health
Korra will join the district’s Peer Support Team, a program designed to promote emotional health and resilience among firefighters and other emergency personnel. District officials said the presence of a certified therapy dog provides an additional source of comfort, connection, and support for crew members who regularly face high‑stress situations.
“Having Korra on the team gives our firefighters a tangible reminder that they are cared for,” said a district spokesperson. “She offers calm, unconditional companionship that can ease tension after a demanding call.”
Volunteer handlers play a key role
Tom and Rebecca Gilman are members of the Fire Corps volunteer group, a citizen‑led organization that assists the fire district with non‑operational tasks and community outreach. Their successful completion of handler evaluations means they are trained to work safely and effectively with Korra, ensuring the dog’s presence benefits the team without disrupting operations.
During her training, Korra spent time with fire crews, receiving encouragement and learning how to respond to the unique environment of fire stations and emergency scenes. Photos released by the district show the dog resting beside team members after completing her certification evaluation, illustrating the bond already forming between the canine and the responders.
Peer Support Team’s broader mission
The Peer Support Team is part of a growing movement among fire districts and other first‑response agencies to address mental‑health challenges proactively. By offering counseling, debriefings, and resources such as therapy animals, the team aims to reduce stigma around seeking help and to strengthen the overall well‑being of those who protect the community.
Local residents have expressed support for the initiative, noting that a strong, healthy fire department translates to safer neighborhoods. “Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day,” said a longtime community member. “Knowing they have tools like Korra to help them cope makes us all feel more secure.”
Looking ahead
As Korra begins her duties, the fire district plans to integrate the therapy dog into regular wellness activities, including post‑incident debriefs and scheduled visits to fire stations throughout the Sisters‑Camp Sherman area. The district hopes the program will serve as a model for neighboring jurisdictions seeking to enhance support for their own first‑responders.
For more information about the Peer Support Team or to volunteer, residents can contact the Sisters‑Camp Sherman Fire District office.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
