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In the heart of our communities, there are unsung heroes who tirelessly dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others. First responders—including police officers, firefighters, EMTs, 911 dispatchers and registered nurses—often face immense stress, trauma and sacrifice. The nonprofit organization, 1st Tix, is dedicated to honoring their service and to support their well-being.

VA also proudly serves our nation’s first responders and is prioritizing outreach efforts in the new year to reach those who served and continue to serve in first responder roles. Apply for VA benefits today.

A mission of gratitude 

1st Tix distributes free event tickets to current and former first responders and their families. 1st Tix was created in 2018 by its sister organization, Vet Tix, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing free event tickets to Veterans, active military members and their families. By providing access to live events, concerts, sporting events, and more, 1st Tix aims to foster relaxation, entertainment and connection. 

The power of appreciation 

Beyond the joy and entertainment that 1st Tix provides, the organization’s mission also aims to improve the mental health of first responders. Exposure to traumatic events can lead to a range of mental health challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. By offering opportunities for relaxation and social interaction, 1st Tix helps to alleviate stress and promote overall well-being. 

The first step toward getting free tickets is to create a free account. Once eligibility is verified by ID.me, users will receive daily emails about events in their local area. If there are events you’re interested in attending, you select them. If you’re randomly chosen, you’ll be notified via email or through the app. A nominal delivery fee is required to receive the tickets. Once the delivery fee is paid, you receive your event tickets. 

A community of support 

1st Tix recognizes the importance of community and connection. By attending events together, first responders and their families can strengthen bonds with fellow colleagues, share experiences and find solace in shared understanding. These social interactions can be incredibly therapeutic, reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of belonging. 1st Tix and Vet Tix rely on the generosity of donors to fulfill its mission. Donors include teams, leagues, performers, promoters, venues and private donors who have tickets that they aren’t going to use. These donated tickets are tax deductible for the face value of each. 

A partnership for heroes 

VA has recognized the vital work of 1st Tix, through Vet Tix, and has partnered with the organization to extend its reach to Veterans. Many Veterans transition from military service into careers as first responders. Veterans often face similar challenges as first responders, including exposure to trauma and mental health struggles. By providing free event tickets to Veterans, VA and 1st Tix are working together to support their well-being and reintegration into civilian life. 

To learn more, visit vettix.org, or 1sttix.org

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25 Comments

  1. Charlie Price December 10, 2024 at 03:43 - Reply

    Hello” I Charlie need four Falcon tickets so pleas reach out to me . Thank you

  2. Felicia December 4, 2024 at 11:42 - Reply

    Responding to all codes. Are Respiratory Therapists not 1st responders?

  3. Tomeka Allison December 2, 2024 at 09:58 - Reply

    I’m interested.

  4. Shelley December 2, 2024 at 08:35 - Reply

    how to get the ticket?

  5. kim December 1, 2024 at 09:53 - Reply

    1st tix is not for veterans only vet tix so idk why you put it in here…

  6. Angela D Johnson December 1, 2024 at 02:51 - Reply

    USAF veteran, ultrasound and x-ray tech since 1988

  7. 2LT JoanNicola Marie Lutz Phillips November 30, 2024 at 15:07 - Reply

    Do you do concerts too?

  8. Micheal Petersen November 30, 2024 at 01:44 - Reply

    So tired of hearing about the poor first responders when the U.S.P.S. letter carriers are on the street everyday helping the public in many way’s everyday, they are the first on the scene and they end up calling the poor first responders, they provide help at the cost of their jobs or other discipline from postal supervisors they are told it’s not your job but they never turn away from customers or other people who need help.

    • Wally Martin December 15, 2024 at 08:05 - Reply

      USPS, how many were Shot and Killed last year? How many are in wheel chairs due to there job commitments?

      USPS loses Certified Mail and all they have to say is: File a Claim to get the cost the of Postage back, they’re so lazy they feel no responsibility.. to even fill out the dam claim! USPS has been in business sence 1775, and you can count on 2 hands how many years they actually produced a profit! So quite winning…. !

  9. Frances Wheeler November 29, 2024 at 18:28 - Reply

    Thank you for your kindness to all 1st responders and military, veterans this is very thoughtful thanks

  10. E J Disney November 28, 2024 at 12:01 - Reply

    I’m interested

  11. Kawanis Watkins November 28, 2024 at 08:50 - Reply

    Tickets for the veteran.

  12. Cinthia Medina November 28, 2024 at 05:26 - Reply

    Nice to have this, and have the support of community

  13. Cinthia Medina November 28, 2024 at 05:26 - Reply

    Nice to have this

  14. Donald Smith November 28, 2024 at 05:19 - Reply

    Thank for all fellow responder’s

  15. alan huessy November 28, 2024 at 03:19 - Reply

    I created my idme account for vet tix. now what?

  16. Jeffrey Lee Tidwell November 28, 2024 at 02:22 - Reply

    I’m a single disabled veteran with a 8 year old girl would love tickets thanks

    • Charlie Price December 1, 2024 at 23:44 - Reply

      My family and I would love to be the next ticket winner for 22 of December 2024 Falcon game for a family of 5. I am a disable Vietnam Vet and a true falcon’s fan!

  17. David November 28, 2024 at 00:31 - Reply

    I’m a 100% disabled vet looking at tickets for myself and my sons to events in Utah & Idaho as we live on the border of both states

  18. Dennis Haber November 27, 2024 at 23:36 - Reply

    Than. We who served, appreciate it.

  19. Vincent November 27, 2024 at 21:50 - Reply

    Help me understand, how is it that 9/11 first responders are receiving better compensation for 9/11 illnesses I.e: once you’re certified by the health program with a 9/11 illness, then the victim compensation fund will pay up to $250,000 for your cancer, will pay your lost income if you’re ever found disabled due to your illness and God forbid you die of a 9/11 illness, they’ll pay your family on average about $400,000. So it’s kind of a cancer insurance policy for the 9/11 community.
    I server over 24 years, fought in the 9/11 wars, got cancer twice, have respiratory issues, and numerous joint issues, and I was told by the VBA that cancer does not get you any compensation. I was told that the presumptive illness that is approved by the VA does not qualify for compensation. I call my Congressman and his office never followed up with a response. I will no longer believe the lie “ Thank you for your Service “ it should be what President Trump said “ if you serve the military you are a sucker “.

    • cortney poret November 30, 2024 at 13:08 - Reply

      I am a single mom with a 15 year old boy, and 13 year old daughter. Would love some tickets for disabled veteran and my children.

  20. Derek Torregano November 27, 2024 at 20:33 - Reply

    Tickets Please

  21. Sheridan Crawford November 27, 2024 at 20:01 - Reply

    Are Military considered “First Responders” I vaguely recall responding to OIF in a timely manner…

    • John December 1, 2024 at 10:16 - Reply

      Thanks 1st Tix. This should be published in more public venues.

      @Vincent, write more Congressman not just one. Sometimes messages get buried.

      Also, sorry you fell for the lefts propaganda. Trump has been very vocal about his praise and support of the military and never said military were suckers. That was debunked long ago by multiple investigations showing it nothing more than a political troll by the left to keep him from getting votes. Everyone knows how much he appreciates and supports military so don’t fall for the lefts sucker trap.

      I wish you luck engaging other Congressmen and Congresswomen.

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