First Responder Wellness

A Letter to the New Town Community from First Responder Wellness and Kim Vest

To our friends, sponsors, players, families, and supporters,

As I reflect on the past four years of hosting the First Responder Wellness Volleyball Tournament here, my heart is filled with gratitude.

What began as an idea to bring first responders together through competition, connection, and wellness became something far greater because of this community. Year after year, you welcomed us with open arms, generously hosting 18–20 teams of firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, dispatchers, and other first responders. Your support created an atmosphere where friendships were formed, memories were made, and our mission was strengthened.

Many first responders have told me over the years that this tournament felt like the summertime version of Guns N’ Hoses. That comparison has always meant so much to me because it reflects what this event became through the generosity of this community. The atmosphere here was about much more than volleyball. It was the food shared among friends, the laughter that carried throughout the day, the music, the helicopters landing, the police K-9 demonstrations, the families who came to support their loved ones, and the countless moments of connection that reminded us why community matters. The warmth and hospitality of Newtown helped create an experience that first responders looked forward to year after year.

I cannot thank you enough for the kindness, hospitality, and encouragement you have shown us. Every tournament brought its own stories, but one thing remained constant: people had fun, everyone went home safely, and every day spent here felt special. There was always a winner on the court, but the real victory was seeing first responders come together in a place that felt like home.

As President of First Responder Wellness, I’ve spent a great deal of time thinking about the future of this event. Life has taken some wonderful and unexpected turns, and with that comes the responsibility of ensuring this tournament continues to grow and thrive for years to come.

Recently, the St. Louis First Responder Canteen approached us with an offer to help support the tournament’s transition and ultimately carry the event forward in the future. As we discussed the next chapter, they shared their vision of expanding participation across the entire region by moving the tournament to a more central location. Their goal is to make it easier for departments from throughout the St. Louis area—including those in the southern counties—to join us and become part of this tradition.

Because of that vision, the 2026 First Responder Wellness Volleyball Tournament will be held at Sandbar STL in Ballwin.

I want to be very clear: this move is not because you are any less appreciated. Jess and Andy and New Town Volleyball were our rock and made us be successful. Thank you so much. The foundation built here is the reason we are able to take this next step.

Nothing will ever compare to the founding of First Responder Wellness in Newtown and the incredible generosity of this community. Long before we knew what this organization would become, you believed in the mission. You welcomed us, supported us, sponsored us, played with us, and helped create something that has impacted first responders throughout our region.

As First Responder Wellness enters its next chapter, I will always look back on Newtown with deep gratitude. This community was there at the very beginning, and that foundation can never be replaced. No matter where the tournament is held in the future, Newtown will always be part of our story and part of the heart of First Responder Wellness.

To every sponsor, volunteer, player, and supporter who has stood beside us over these past four years—thank you. You helped create something meaningful, and I will always be grateful for the role you played in its success.

I would love for you to join us as we begin this next generation of First Responder Wellness volleyball tournaments. Please come celebrate with us on August 1st at Sandbar STL as we continue our mission of supporting the health, wellness, and connection of first responders throughout our region.

Thank you for four incredible years. The memories made here will always be part of this tournament’s and the charity’s story, and I hope you’ll be part of the next chapter as well.

With sincere gratitude,

Kimberly Vest - New Towner

President

First Responder Wellness

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