March 25, 2026 — HEART 9/11 President & Founder, retired PAPD Lt. Bill Keegan, along with Sgt. Scott Ruszczyk—Chief Resiliency Instructor and Union President during the Sandy Hook School shooting in Newtown, CT — participated in the international online symposium, “Responding to Mental Health Challenges: Building Resilience Together.”The event brought together leaders from the United States, the Netherlands, and participants from across Europe and beyond, addressing the growing need for effective mental health support for first and second responders.
HEART 9/11 continues to be a leading organization in educating first and second responders on the impacts of stress and how to build resilience when facing these challenges. HEART 9/11 has maintained a strong national presence, working closely with responder organizations, agencies, and departments across the country.
The symposium was organized by VerzuimConsult, with participation from Dutch organizations including Reveal and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam through its MentaalFit research project. Representatives from the Dutch Fire Department also contributed valuable perspectives on occupational health, research, and frontline response. This exchange reinforced a shared commitment to strengthening mental health systems and expanding resilience-focused support.
Organized as an interactive forum, the symposium encouraged dialogue, knowledge sharing, and cross-border learning.
This event marks the shift toward a lasting international partnership to deepen the impact of peer-based mental health programs.
....About HEART 9/11 - HEART 9/11 is a team of first responders, including FDNY, NYPD, PAPD and the NYC Building Trades who came together in the wake of September 11, 2001. Utilizing our unparalleled experience and training, we are committed to serving others and delivering a powerful message of hope to communities affected by disaster.
