The episode, titled “Honoring First Responders and Their Families,” features Kathryn Severns Avery, the founder and executive director of Restoration Ranch Colorado, and licensed professional counselor Ashley Braund. Both guests bring unique perspectives on supporting first responders and their families through challenges many of us can scarcely imagine.

Kathryn’s Personal Story

Kathryn Severns Avery’s journey began with a tragedy, when her husband Chris died in an accident involving robbery suspects fleeing the police. Chris, who was simply on his way to the grocery store, was fatally struck after the police had already called off the chase for safety reasons. Avery recounts the intuitive sense that something terrible had happened to her husband and the painstaking process of piecing together the tragic news.

Despite the overwhelming grief, Kathryn forged a unique and positive relationship with the Lakewood Colorado Police Department, choosing to celebrate Chris’s life by bringing food to the police roll call on what would have been his milestone birthday. This act of kindness exemplifies her belief in forging strong community ties and supporting those who risk so much.

Restoration Ranch: A Sanctuary for First Responders

Restoration Ranch Colorado, founded by Kathryn, provides a haven for first responders and their families. With 40 acres of land dedicated to recreation and respite, the ranch offers various activities such as hiking and team-building exercises. It’s not a mental health facility but rather a peaceful retreat akin to an Airbnb, allowing families to bond away from the pressures and risks of daily life.

Moreover, the ranch offers special day camps for teens overseen by counselors like Ashley Braund. These camps focus on creating a supportive community where teens connected to law enforcement and first responders can share their unique experiences. Activities are designed to empower these young individuals, providing them with a space where they feel seen and heard, especially amid societal criticism toward law enforcement.

The Power of Connection and Community

Kathryn and Ashley’s work doesn’t stop at the ranch. Kathryn speaks at trauma conferences, emphasizing the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of community in promoting mental and emotional well-being. This episode highlights her plans to start a podcast aimed at discussing transitions and retirement for law enforcement officers, a critical but often overlooked aspect.

A notable segment of the podcast discusses Avery’s involvement in the justice system due to her husband’s death and her ongoing challenges with parole hearings. This bittersweet commitment underscores the continual fight for justice and proper support for first responders and their families.

Supporting the Next Generation

The episode closes by reinforcing the importance of supporting first responder families to prevent generational trauma. Kathryn shares her dedication to building trust and educating civilians about the sacrifices made by these everyday heroes.

Through Kathryn and Ashley’s efforts, we are reminded of the incalculable value of empathy, community, and understanding. Their work at Restoration Ranch Colorado is a testament to the power of human resilience and the importance of providing spaces where healing can occur.

To stay updated on future projects and collaborations, you can follow their work on social media, where the hosts frequently share updates and the impact of their efforts. For those wishing to visit the ranch or participate in teen camps, arrangements can be made via email at visit@restorationranchcolorado.com or you can visit https://restorationranchcolorado.com/. 

A Seat at the Table

Jennifer, the host, encapsulates the episode’s message: acknowledging one’s needs and ensuring everyone has a “seat at the table” in self-care, especially for those who selflessly serve our communities. By sharing these incredible stories, the “When the Call Hits Home” podcast continues to honor the bravery and the silent sacrifices of first responders and their families.