The Anchor Point

08/11/2025

Support Brad Howle During His Recovery

On August 6, 2025, our dear friend, colleague, and fellow firefighter, Brad Howle, underwent emergency surgery at Carle Hospital after being diagnosed with a perforated bowel. Brad’s condition required immediate attention, and though the surgery was successful, he will be in the hospital for at least two weeks and facing a long road to recovery.

As the primary breadwinner for his family—his wife, Laynie, and their 2-year-old son, Trace—Brad’s absence during this critical time will undoubtedly put a financial strain on them. In addition to being a loving husband and father, Brad is an essential part of our community.

Support Brad Howle During His Recovery On August 6, 2025, our dear … Dana Garard needs your support for Help Brad Howle Recover and Support His Family

07/31/2025

🛟 Become the Lifeline Your Team Needs! 🛟

At The Anchor Point, we believe every first responder and veteran deserves unwavering support. Our upcoming Peer Support Training Class equips YOU to be that lifeline.

🔒 Eligibility: This training is open exclusively to first responders (active or retired), military members (active duty, guard, reserves, or retired), veterans, and their immediate family members.

✅ Learn critical skills to effectively support colleagues in crisis
✅ Understand best practices for confidential peer counseling
✅ Strengthen your agency's resilience and camaraderie

📅 When: August 22-23, 2025
📍 Where: ILEAS, Urbana, IL
🕒 Time: 8 AM - 5 PM daily
💲 Registration: $250 (Spaces limited!)

Join a network of dedicated responders making a real difference—because together, we're stronger.

👉 Secure your spot today: https://peersupport.theanchorpoint501c.org

The TAP Peer Support Training Class will be held from 8:00AM to 5:00PM each day at the ILEAS Training Center (1701 E. Main St, Urbana IL 61802).

07/23/2025

Memorial shirts for Trace are available for purchase. All proceeds go directly to the family. Please purchase one to help them with ongoing expenses. Link will be in the comments as well. Thank you!

07/21/2025

It was a beautiful service to honor a great human. Rest easy and til Valhalla brother

07/19/2025

See the photo for info on services to honor our colleague and friend Trace Conover

07/16/2025

Thank you to each and every one of you that was able to make it out to the City of Champaign Fire Department Family Event last night to honor FF Trace Conover. We would like to especially thank TM Horse Haven, Old Orchard Lanes and Links, Illini Media Group (WIXY 100.3, WYXY Classic 99.1, Rewind 92.5, Mix 94.5 - Champaign/Urbana, IL, Extra 96.9, 97.9 The Vibe), Champaign Firefighters Benevolent Fund, and Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 for helping us make this happen.

07/14/2025

Thank you for your compassion and generosity as we come together to remember and
honor Trace.

Venmo: https://venmo.com/code?user_id=3704867235301182751&created=1752255900.445482&printed=1

PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/ChampFireBenevolent?locale.x=en_US

Check: Champaign Firefighters Benevolent Fund
1601 Bentbrook Drive Champaign, IL 61822

07/11/2025

In Loving Memory of Trace Conover

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we at The Anchor Point mourn the loss of Firefighter Trace Conover, who passed away off duty on July 9, 2025.

Trace was more than a firefighter—he was a dedicated advocate, a loyal friend, and a compassionate presence within our TAP community. He understood the weight that first responders carry, and he chose to serve not only on the front lines but also behind the scenes, working to support the emotional and mental well-being of his peers.

As a proud member of TAP and a recently appointed member of our Board of Directors, Trace brought integrity, insight, and quiet strength to everything he did. His commitment to the mission of peer support and his desire to be a part of something bigger than himself made him a natural fit within our organization and a beloved part of our family.

We are devastated by his loss, but we remain inspired by the example he set—showing up for others, standing beside his brothers and sisters in service, and believing that no one should face the weight of this work alone.

Our thoughts are with Trace’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters. We grieve together, we honor his memory, and we carry his legacy forward with purpose and resolve.

Rest easy, Trace. We’ll take it from here.

— The Anchor Point 501c3

06/15/2025

Jamee and Madison from the TAP team had the opportunity to talk with members of Oakwood Ambulance Service about the importance of taking care of your mental health as a first responder.

06/13/2025

Ever wondered why The Anchor Point should matter to you?

05/09/2025

2025 graduation season is upon us. Shout out to our TAP members with kids graduating from Mahomet HS tonight.

Got pics from your kids graduation? Share them with us so we can all celebrate!