About

The Full Story

The Founders of Restoration Farms, Jared and Hannah met in 2005. Jared had come to Michigan to join a ministry organization, but his heart was in public service - specifically firefighting. Early on in their relationship, they talked about ministry to first responders and what that may look like in the future. They both found themselves with a passion to offer hope to those who were serving their communities. What might this look like? They had no idea . . .

Married in 2007, Jared jumped into EMT school while working odd jobs. After he completed his EMT and Fire training, he was accepted into paramedic school and also accepted a job in death investigation.

In 2012, Jared graduated and was hired full time at a local department. Cue culture shock - toxic culture from years of exposure to trauma, death, and the threat of the culture at large. Quickly, Jared was trying to wage the balance of serving his community with his whole heart at the same moment that his heart was heavy and breaking for the people around him.

Attempting to bear the burdens of his work while still being fully engaged with  his family was a grizzly load to hold. Taking on and putting off the fire helmet while stuffing his experiences in his locker before he came home quickly wore him to the soul.

By 2019, the load could no longer be ignored. And years of pushing big feelings and threats down finally caught up with him as his body now screamed for attention and validation.

Insomnia, racing thoughts, flash backs, anxiety, panic, and suicidal thoughts plagued Jared. Hannah held to hope that there was help somewhere. For nearly three months, Jared didn't work. He relied on Hannah for everything, and he was no longer the husband and father he was before.

Through the gracious leading and grace of God, they found the therapy and doctors Jared needed. He has made a full recovery, and is continuing to work on his mental health to remain in a stable place for years to come.

This experience planted a seed of passion to provide support and resources for other first responders who may find themselves overwhelmed by what they see and experience every day. Restoration Farms was born out of this crisis as an answer to the need. 

​

This ministry's goals are three fold:

1) Providing high quality Mental Health Resiliency Trainings

2) Offering peer support and Mental Health First Aid when crisis comes

3) Providing a space for for first responders to find healing and recovery for PTSD and other Mental Health Challenges

​

Jared: Is currently an active duty Paramedic Firefighter, an active member of his department's Peer Support Team and a lay counselor.

​

Hannah: Is a Registered Nurse, Board Certified Mental Health Coach and Life Coach with Certificates in Trauma, Crisis Response, and Suicide Prevention

​

Jared and Hannah are parents to six boys and active in their community supporting local public service workers, encouraging our men and women in uniform, and working toward next steps on this mission of Bringing Hope to the Hearts of Heroes!