Supporting First Responders
Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, or attend our events, your support helps strengthen our mission and extend care, resources, and hope to first responders. While donations directly fund retreats and services, volunteers bring heart, time, and much needed connection to the work. No matter how you choose to participate, your involvement creates meaningful impact and helps build a stronger, more compassionate community.
Attend the 415 Gala!
We will be having The 415 Gala and auction on September 10th 2026, aligned with September 11, a date that holds deep meaning for our community.
Location: Harvard Hall, New York City.
Special Guest Speaker: “Mia”, the real-life CIA operative whose story inspired Zero Dark Thirty. We will have additional guest — Notable and alumni speakers — to make this evening unforgettable.
All funds raised will directly support future retreats and scholarships for first responders and their spouses seeking healing through our programs.
Why 415?
Because everyone knows 343 firefighters lost their lives on 9/11. What’s less widely remembered is the 72 police officers who also died. Together, 415 first responders lost their lives in the line of duty. As tribute we are asking for a $415 contribution for seat at one of the 200 plates available for our first ever gala.
Contribute to the Cause
Zelle is free and 100% of your contribution goes to The S.I.R.E.N. Project.
Zelle is accessed through your personal online bank account or Mobile App.
Send payment to Angela@TheSIRENProject.org
You can also scan or click this QR code to donate through Givebutter.
You will be redirected to our secure donation page there.
Volunteer Program
The S.I.R.E.N. Volunteer Program exists to create a sustainable, service-based community that supports the ongoing healing of first responders and their families. By drawing from the Vipassana tradition of selfless service (“Seva”), this program ensures that the mission continues to grow.
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Service as Integration: Volunteering is both an act of gratitude and an integral part of personal healing. Those who serve deepen their own integration while supporting others.
Integrity & Safety: Volunteers must uphold the sacred container of the retreats — confidentiality, humility, and professionalism.
Embodiment of the Work: Only those who have personally experienced a S.I.R.E.N. retreat may apply. Service begins from lived understanding, not intellectual interest.
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Must have completed at least one S.I.R.E.N. retreat.
Must have demonstrated reliability, humility, and respect for the process during that retreat.
Must complete a Volunteer Application and Interview process.
Commitment to sobriety, safety, and service during volunteer periods.
Willingness to engage in pre-retreat training and post-retreat integration meetings.
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Application Submission – Interested participants complete a short digital form outlining: Their S.I.R.E.N. retreat experience, motivation for volunteering, relevant skills (logistics, integration support, marketing, facilitation, administration, fundraising, event planning, etc.)
Review & Interview – A small committee (e.g., Angela, Tim, and one senior volunteer) screens applicants.
Acceptance & Training – Selected volunteers complete an orientation on S.I.R.E.N. protocols, ethics, and boundaries, and agreement to confidentiality and safety guidelines.
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Operational Roles - Admin & Communications – Email coordination, donor follow-ups, scheduling.
Volunteer Coordinator Role – A designated lead oversees scheduling, logistics, and communication.
Outreach & Fundraising – Grant research, donor relations, merchandise, and event support.
Creative & Media Support – Photo/video (where appropriate), journaling, social media updates with consent.
Integration Support – Assist in non-facilitative emotional support post-ceremony under supervision.
Post-Retreat Integration Calls – Serve as note-takers or moderators for follow-up sessions.
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Each volunteer will:
Complete the S.I.R.E.N. Volunteer Orientation (remote or in person). - Be paired with a mentor from the core team for the first retreat.
Receive ongoing feedback and opportunities to grow into senior volunteer or leadership roles.
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Clear Channels – Volunteers report to their coordinator, not directly to Tim or Angela, freeing leadership to stay focused on expansion and partnership building.
Post-Retreat Debriefs – Required after each retreat to identify improvements and celebrate wins.
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Deepened healing and integration through service.
Access to ongoing S.I.R.E.N. training, circles, and community gatherings.
Eligibility for leadership positions within the organization.
Recognition on the S.I.R.E.N. website and in annual reports.
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Over time, this structure will:
Create a self-sustaining community of alumni who give back.
Allow Tim and Angela to focus on macro-level partnerships, research collaborations, and fundraising.
Build a scalable volunteer culture that mirrors the discipline and heart-centered service of the Vipassana model.
