Answering the Call: Elevating Wellness and Training for 911 Dispatchers

I provide science-based wellness training with a holistic approach, challenging first responder stigmas while prioritizing well-being. Using student-centered learning and adult learning theory, I hope to foster personal growth in order to positively impact agency culture, morale, and retention.

My name is Shannon Polito and I have been a dispatcher for 16 years in California, and I genuinely love the job itself. However, my passion goes beyond simply helping those who call 911 or communicate over the radio. I'm driven to help those who are wearing the headset, which led me to found Help For the Headset. I am passionate about creating courses that address specific areas of health and well-being for emergency dispatchers. I firmly believe that with the right training and information, people can become the best dispatchers they can be by being the healthiest and best versions of themselves.

I hold several certifications, including Advanced POST instructor, ENP, RPL, CTO, Academy instructor, and I am a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in first responder wellness, Cumulative PTSI, and California Law Enforcement Telecommunications Systems (CLETS). Over time, I have had the opportunity to lead breakout sessions at regional and national conferences including but not limited to NENA, APCO, Navigator, CalNena, Northern California APCO, Colorado APCO/NENA, Arizona APCO/NENA, Heroes in the Heartland, Gold Line Support, Alabama 911 Board, and the California CLETS Users Group (CCUG).

Through Help For the Headset, I strive to empower dispatchers to thrive in their roles, and making a positive impact on the entire emergency response community.

Link to my articles on Crackyl's website: 
Why Hearing But Not Seeing is So Detrimental for 911 Dispatchers
Dispatchers on the Frontline: Natural Disasters and Moral Injury
Why Dispatchers Deserve 911 Status

For more information, including possible training dates and rates, please email me directly at: 
[email protected]