Officer wellness begins with having the right people, the right training, and the right support systems in place. This September, law enforcement professionals across South Carolina will have a unique opportunity to strengthen those resources by attending the Power In Peers Train-the-Trainer course, hosted by the Summerville Police Department from September 7–11, 2026, in the Charleston area.
Developed by the National Fraternal Order of Police and funded by the U.S. Department of Justice COPS Office, Power In Peers is the nation’s standardized peer support training program created by law enforcement for law enforcement. The course is offered at no cost, making it an exceptional opportunity for agencies looking to expand or strengthen their peer support programs while investing in the long-term wellness of their personnel.
This training is expected to be the only Power In Peers Train-the-Trainer course offered in South Carolina for the foreseeable future, making it a rare opportunity for those interested in becoming nationally certified instructors. Agencies that participate will be equipped to return home ready to build, strengthen, or expand peer support programs using a nationally recognized curriculum.
Power In Peers has now expanded into 20 states, continuing to build a growing national network of trained peer supporters committed to improving officer wellness throughout the profession. More than a training course, the program creates lasting professional relationships by bringing together participants from multiple agencies to learn, collaborate, and build support networks that continue long after the week of instruction concludes.
The comprehensive curriculum prepares active and retired law enforcement officers, civilian law enforcement employees, police chaplains, and mental health clinicians who serve the law enforcement community to provide effective peer support. Participants develop skills in active listening, critical incident response, everyday stress management, and evidence-based concepts drawn from Positive Psychology to help fellow officers navigate both the unique demands of policing and the challenges of everyday life.
While peer support is often associated with critical incidents, the Power In Peers curriculum recognizes that officer wellness is built through consistent support before, during, and after difficult events. By preparing trained peer supporters to recognize and respond to both routine and extraordinary stressors, agencies can strengthen resilience, improve organizational wellness, and foster healthier work environments.
“Taking care of our officers starts with taking care of each other. Power In Peers gives agencies the training to do exactly that.”
— John Blackmon, President, South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police
The Fraternal Order of Police has long been committed to advancing officer wellness through education, peer support, and resources that address the evolving needs of the profession. Programs like Power In Peers demonstrate that commitment by providing agencies with practical tools and nationally recognized training that strengthens both individual officers and the organizations they serve.
Because seating is limited and this is expected to be the only South Carolina Train-the-Trainer offering for the foreseeable future, agencies are encouraged to register early and share this opportunity with neighboring departments and partner agencies.
Register Today
Registration is free, but seats are limited.
➡️ Register for the Power In Peers Train-the-Trainer Course
