Beyond the Call: Understanding Life and Love in the Fire Service
Kevin & Yvonne Henson
Friday, June 13, 2025
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
The life of a public servant presents both challenges and rewards, as does the relationship between these responders and their spouses. This class offers a deep dive into the unique and often challenging environment that exists between first responders and their families.
During this program, Kevin and Yvonne Henson will provide their firsthand perspective on the trials and triumphs of life and love within the Fire Service. Their daughter, Isabelle Henson, now 20 years old, will share her unique experience of growing up in a first responder household.
Throughout the program, we will candidly discuss the heartache and joy that define the relationships of first responders and their spouses. From navigating challenging moments to celebrating remarkable successes, we will share our personal journey. While these relationships aren’t always easy, through dedication, accountability, and unwavering love, dreams can indeed be realized. Topics such as accountability, anxiety, compassion fatigue, depression, sleep deprivation, and trust will be discussed.
Join us as we recount our experiences and impart lessons that can resonate with anyone, helping them to live their lives “Beyond the Call” and gain a deeper understanding of Life and Love in Emergency Services.
Kevin Henson
Kevin was born on February 4, 1980, in Greenville, South Carolina. He is married to Yvonne, and they have two daughters, Isabelle, and Violet. The family resides in Summerville, South Carolina.
Kevin began his career in the fire service in 2001 as a volunteer firefighter with the Tigerville Fire Department in Greenville County. In January of 2003, Kevin was hired as a firefighter and EMT with the Piedmont Park Fire District where he rose through the ranks of Engineer, Lieutenant, and Captain (Shift Commander). In 2016, Kevin joined the Greenville City Fire Department where he served in various positions including Fire Inspector, Accreditation Manager, and Special Operations Chief. In October of 2021, Kevin and his family pursued a life-long dream to relocate to the coast of South Carolina. Kevin accepted a position with the St. John’s Fire District where he continues to serve as the Deputy Fire Chief.
Kevin graduated Waldorf University in 2017 where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in fire administration. Kevin is a graduate of the 2016 South Carolina Firefighters’ Associations Leadership Institute Program, a 2023 graduate of the South Carolina State Association of Fire Chiefs’ South Carolina Chief Fire Officer program, and a 2024 graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer program. Chief Henson holds the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from the Center of Public Safety Excellence that was obtained in 2023.
Chief Henson has served the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association in several roles, including his current role on the Executive Committee as the 4th Vice President.
Yvonne Henson
Yvonne Henson has served in both public safety and private sector roles related to the emergency services industry. Yvonne is married to Kevin Henson, a Deputy Fire Chief who has served in public safety for over 22 years. She is a mother to two daughters, Isabelle, and Violet. Yvonne served as a Dispatcher, Dispatch Trainer, Dispatch Supervisor, and Communication Center Manager for the County of Greenville where she served for 13 years. Yvonne left public safety to pursue a career in the private sector with technology. Yvonne’s unique perspective as both a firefighter spouse, and a former dispatcher provide her with valuable knowledge regarding the behavioral and mental health of spouses who work in public safety.
