Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute > First Responder Wellness Summit

First Responder Wellness Summit

Caring for Ourselves During the Overdose Crisis

September 23, 2026 | 8am-3:45pm PT | Registration opens July 2026

The Hub Ballroom at the University of Washington

4001 E. Stevens Way NE, Seattle, WA

Registration

The First Responder Summit is free to attend. Registration opens July 2026.

About the First Responder Summit

First responders regularly face complex, high-impact situations that can take a toll over time, particularly as calls around substance use and drug overdose have increased. This can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, feelings of moral injury, and other stress related to the demands of the job.

This one-day summit brings together professionals from law enforcement, fire, EMS, corrections, parks, co-response teams, dispatch, and peer support to explore how to strengthen first responder well-being amidst the current drug overdose crisis and in their lives more broadly.

Through a keynote presentation, panels, and interactive discussions, participants will hear from first responders and people in recovery and learn practical tools and strategies that support first responder well-being.

The day is focused on helping those who care for our communities also care for themselves, their colleagues, and their teams.

More details, speakers, and registration information coming soon!

Contact:
Nicole Branche – nbranche@uw.edu

Sign Up for Updates Here

FAQ

Is there a cost to attend?

No. Registration for the First Responder Wellness Summit funded by the state and is free for first responders to attend.

How do I register?

Once registration opens, you can register online using the registration link on this page. Registration is required to attend.

Who should attend?

This event is designed for first responder professionals working in law enforcement, fire services, parks and recreation, EMS, corrections, co-response programs, dispatch, and peer support roles.

When and where is the Summit taking place?

September 23, 2026, at the HUB Ballroom on the University of Washington campus in Seattle.

What time does the event begin and end?

Check-in begins at 8:00 AM. The summit runs from 9:00 AM to approximately 3:45 PM.

Will meals be provided?

Yes. Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments will be provided for registered attendees.

What is the cost of parking?

Padelford Parking Garage (N20 & N21) is the nearest parking lot to the HUB.
Parking on the University of Washington campus is available for $21 per day. More information about parking on UW campus can be found here.

We have limited parking assistance funds available. If parking on campus would present a barrier to your attendance please indicate this during registration. Assistance will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

How do I request accessibility accommodations?

If you require accommodations to participate fully in the Summit, please contact Nicole Branche at nbranche@uw.edu.

Local Area Hotels

The hotels below are near the University, but Seattle also has numerous hotels throughout the city. Downtown Seattle is a short light-rail ride away.

First Responder Wellness Summit

Caring for Ourselves During the Overdose Crisis

Registration

About the First Responder Summit

FAQ

Local Area Hotels

College Inn

University Inn

Residence Inn Marriott Hotel, University District

Graduate Seattle

Silver Cloud Inn

Watertown Hotel