ACO Occupational Division

04/28/2026

We pause to remember workers who lost their lives, were injured, or became ill due to their work.
In our line of work, the risks aren’t always visible but they are real. Our union will keep fighting for safety, health, and protection for every member.

04/16/2026

As we celebrate National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we recognize the voices behind the headset; the calm in the chaos, the steady presence in someone’s worst moment.

Working in emergency communications means carrying stories that don’t always stay at work. The impact is real; mentally, emotionally, and physically. And while we show up for others every single day, it’s just as important that we have support when we need it too.

As a Occupational Division, we want to remind you of the free, confidential mental health resources available to you:

• Boots on the Ground Ontario
24/7 anonymous peer support from fellow first responders
📞 1-833-677-2668
🌐 https://www.bootsontheground.ca
📧 [email protected]
(No call display. No judgment.) (bootsontheground.ca)

• First Responder Assist
Specialized, trauma-informed counselling for first responders
🌐 https://woundedwarriors.ca/our-programs/first-responder-assist/
(Virtual and in-person options available in Ontario) (woundedwarriors.ca)

• Warrior Health
Free, anonymous, on-demand mental health resources for public safety personnel and families
🌐 https://warriorhealth.ca
📧 [email protected]
(24/7 access, no personal info required) (Warrior Health)

• ConnexOntario
Helps connect you to mental health, addiction, and crisis services
📞 1-866-531-2600
💬 Text: CONNEX to 247247
🌐 https://www.connexontario.ca (Ontario)

• Wellness Together Canada
24/7 online mental health support, counselling, and resources
🌐 https://www.wellnesstogether.ca

• PSPNET
Free internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for first responders
📞 1-833-317-7233
🌐 https://www.pspnet.ca (Ontario)

You are not alone in this work and you don’t have to carry it alone either.

Not every hero is seen…in our case, we’re heard.
And your voice matters on the line, and off.

Make us your first call. 24/7 anonymous peer support helpline and resources for First Responders.

04/14/2026

We want to recognize the incredible work of Ambulance Communications Officers and ORNGE Communications Officers.

We know what it means to carry the weight of every call - the urgency, the responsibility, and the human moments in between. You are the calm in the chaos, the steady voice when people need it most, and a critical link in saving lives.

We are proud to stand with you through OPSEU/SEFPO, representing professionals who show up with strength, skill, and compassion every single day.

What you do matters more than most will ever truly understand. And it does not go unnoticed.

Thank you - for everything.

Your DivEx team

04/13/2026

Happy Telecommunications Week! 📞🚑 🛫

This week, we proudly celebrate the incredible work of our dedicated Ambulance Communication Officers, and Ornge Communication Officers who are the calm voices in the chaos. Every call answered, every dispatch made, and every life touched is a testament to your professionalism, resilience, and heart.

Behind every siren is a team—and none of it would be possible without the voices guiding the way. Thank you for being the lifeline when it matters most.

💛 We’d love to hear from each and everyone one of you. 💛
Drop a comment below and let us know who you are, and where you work.

Let’s recognize the amazing people behind the scenes who keep our communities safe every single day.

04/12/2026

Wishing all of you amazing ACOs and Ornge Communications Officers an incredible Telecommunications Week.

We all know there is nothing easy about our job, and it takes a special kind of person to do it; that’s why every one of you should be so proud of the work you do. Without all of you, the number of lives saved and positive outcomes would not be possible.

We hope you know the critical role you play in so many people’s lives and that you get all the recognition you deserve this week, but above all, know that you are all heroes for what you do!

Happy Telecommunications Week!! 🙂 👏

From your ACO Occupational Division Executive:

Keri Irving
Mary Doran
Stacey Eichler
Melissa Penner
Holly Sullivan
Grace Grieve

09/19/2025

Hello OPSEU/SEFPO ACOs!
Join the new ACO Occupational Division Group Chat and be entered to win a $100 gift card.

Feel free to post this poster on your workplace union board ✊️

05/31/2025

Introducing your ACO Occupational Division Executive! 🚑📞☎️🚨

We’re proud to announce the formation of the OPSEU/SEFPO ACO Occupational Division and newly elected Executive - representing Ambulance Communications Officers across the province.

Meet your newly elected team:

👤Chair – Amanda Usher
👤Vice-Chair – Keri Irving
💰 Treasurer – Melissa Penner
📝 Secretary – Stacey Eichler
📣 Communications Representative – Holly Sullivan
🛡️ Health & Safety Officer – Mary Doran
🤝 MERC Liaison – Grace Grieve
🐕‍🦺🐾 Service Dog – Remi

This team is committed to strengthening our collective voice, advancing our priorities, and driving meaningful change for all ACOs.

📧 Stay tuned for exciting initiatives and events from the ACO Occupational Division.

Have questions or want to get involved? Reach out at [email protected]

03/15/2025

"Be the Hero Our Heroes Need!"

03/01/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DZmap9RYD/