There are countless ways people invest in their local community. Amanda Tallman founded First Page (First-Page.org) to invest in veterans, first responders, and children.
Creating First Page was near and dear to Tallman’s heart. “The name First Page was inspired by a profound personal loss,” shares Tallman, a US Army veteran. “In the aftermath, a friend shared that the last page doesn’t define you.”
This resonated deeply, and she created a volunteer-run nonprofit organization that offers veterans, first responders, and children a new beginning—a First Page.
“I wanted to build community and resilience, highlighting that the last page doesn’t define us, but that our legacy can still leave an impact.”
Equine-Assisted Learning
Through classes, programs, and retreats, First Page strives to help veterans and first responders regain a sense of purpose after leaving service and offer children positive role models.
One of First Page's newest programs is Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL). This structured, experiential approach involves horse interactions to develop personal strengths, emotional regulation, and people skills. Unlike therapy, EAL is not clinical but focuses on learning and personal growth through interactions with horses as co-facilitators.
“EAL sessions involve various activities designed to encourage self-awareness, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving,” says Tallman.
Tallman chose horses because they are highly intuitive and respond to nonverbal cues, making them powerful learning partners. The program is open to veterans, first responders, children, teens, families, and community groups.
2nd Annual Dr. Adam McCray Veteran Nonprofit Raffle Run
Another facet of the organization is to partner with community members for events to promote available resources. One such event is the upcoming 2nd Annual Dr. Adam McCray Veteran Nonprofit Raffle Run. First Page is teaming up with Soldiers Best Friend (SoldiersBestFriend.org). This organization benefits veterans living with combat-related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Traumatic Brain Injury by providing them with service or therapeutic companion dogs, many of which are rescued from local shelters.
The Raffle Run promotes and identifies mental health resources in the West Valley. Proceeds support First Page and Soldiers' Best Friend. This year's event will be held on Memorial Day, May 26, starting at the Vietnam Veterans Trail in Peoria. The Trilogy Veterans Club will lead participants up the hill, where local Navy veteran, Dick Nalbert, will play the National Anthem and Taps on his saxophone, followed by a few guest speakers.
Afterward, participants will head down the hill and receive a raffle ticket before visiting one of three veteran resource locations: the VA Veterans Center, Soldiers Best Friend, or First Page. At these locations, participants will learn about the services offered and how they are helping veterans today. They will receive an additional raffle ticket at each location. Participants may drop off a monetary donation at Soldiers Best Friend and First Page.
After the run, everyone will meet at Cross Eyed Crickets sports bar for complimentary appetizers and the raffle drawing. Tickets are $25, and the event is open to the public.
Getting Involved with First Page
There are several ways to get involved with First Page. You can volunteer your time, sponsor a workshop, or host a team-building event for your business.
Tallman refused to allow her health struggles after her service to define her. “Just like I tell those who come to First Page, the last page does not define you. I could not change what happened, but I could decide what to do next.”
She looks forward to helping more veterans, first responders, and children find strength, connection, and the support they need to write their next chapter.
Note: Photos by Christopher "Boats" Oshana via Unsplash.com/@boats.