Let’s Back the Blue bringing Post Traumatic Purpose program to Wapakoneta

WAPAKONETA — Let’s Back the Blue is bringing a nationally known speaker to Wapakoneta for a program focused on mental wellness, resiliency, leadership and finding purpose after trauma.

Anne Niemeyer of Let’s Back the Blue joined Kevin Sandler on WCSM’s Spectrum to discuss the upcoming appearance by Travis Howze, founder of Post Traumatic Purpose.

The program will be held Saturday, September 26, at the Wapakoneta Performing Arts Center, located at 1 Redskin Trail. Doors will open at 8 a.m., with the presentation scheduled from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.

Howze is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former police officer and firefighter. He is also a comedian and author who now travels the country speaking about first-responder mental wellness, leadership, resilience, burnout and the emotional impact of service-related careers.

Niemeyer said Howze’s message is based on his own experiences with trauma and post-traumatic stress.

“He has been there,” Niemeyer said. “His stories, his language and his ability to connect are unlike anybody I think I’ve ever heard speak.”

Niemeyer said Howze eventually recognized that unresolved trauma was affecting his career and personal life. After seeking treatment, he began using his experiences to help others recognize their own struggles and understand that asking for help is a sign of strength.

She said the presentation is designed to help participants understand that trauma does not simply disappear when it is ignored.

“I thought I had compartmentalized all of my feelings until all of a sudden there was no room in the compartment anymore,” Niemeyer said while describing Howze’s message.

The event is open to active and retired law-enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, dispatchers, corrections officers, veterans, nurses, healthcare workers, clinicians and others who have experienced critical incidents or accumulated job-related stress.

Spouses, significant others, relatives and friends are also encouraged to attend. Niemeyer said family members can benefit from learning how trauma may affect a loved one and how they can provide support when a stressful memory or situation triggers a reaction.

Howze is expected to remain after the presentation to speak with attendees. Each participant will also receive a signed copy of his book, Create Your Own Light.

Grand Lake Health System is serving as the presenting partner for the program. Niemeyer said communities across Auglaize County have also supported the event, including Cridersville, Waynesfield, Wapakoneta, St. Marys, New Knoxville, New Bremen and Minster.

The Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Allen, Auglaize and Hardin Counties is also among the organizations supporting the presentation.

Let’s Back the Blue was incorporated in 2020 to show support and appreciation for law enforcement. Its programs include grants for Auglaize County law-enforcement agencies, a benevolent fund assisting families following Ohio line-of-duty deaths and $12,000 in scholarships for Auglaize County residents attending area police academies.

Registration information is available at travishowze.com and through the Let’s Back the Blue and Let’s Back the Blue 2.0 Facebook pages.