Charlotte Fire Captain Honored for Mental Health Crisis Response

Captain Andre Fuller stands proudly in front of a Charlotte Fire Ladder 27, embodying his dedication to community service and mental health advocacy. His Crisis Intervention Team training has helped him de-escalate crises and provide lifesaving resources to those in need. 

By Kevin Campbell, Charlotte Fire  

Charlotte Fire Captain Andre Fuller is no stranger to helping people on their worst days. As a firefighter, he has dedicated his career to providing aid and support during moments of crisis. This year, his dedication was recognized as he received the First Responder Award at the annual Mecklenburg County CIT Community Awareness and Recognition event. 

Captain Fuller was honored for his exemplary application of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training to de-escalate a challenging mental health crisis and connect a young woman to the resources she desperately needed. For Fuller, this award is a reflection of his unwavering commitment to serving the community—not just as a firefighter, but as a compassionate leader and advocate for mental health support. 

A Personal Mission to Make a Difference 

Growing up in Miami, Florida, Fuller was raised in a close-knit community where neighbors took care of one another. His mother, a correctional officer for over three decades, instilled in him a sense of discipline and duty. But firefighting wasn’t always on his radar. 

“I saw fire trucks all the time as a kid, but I didn’t know how to become a firefighter,” Fuller said. It wasn’t until he met his godfather, Miami-Dade Fire Battalion Chief Lindsey Plumber, that he considered the profession. “He showed me the teamwork and camaraderie that drew me in,” Fuller said.

With determination in his gaze, Captain Fuller reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his firefighting career. His leadership within Charlotte Fire extends far beyond emergencies, making a lasting impact on his team and the community. 

Becoming the first firefighter in his family, Fuller embraced the job with a sense of purpose, finding fulfillment in helping people through their most difficult moments. “There’s nothing better than leaving a scene knowing you’ve made someone’s day a little better,” he said. 

Discovering CIT and Its Impact 

As Fuller gained experience, he began to encounter situations involving individuals in mental health crises. These calls often left him feeling unprepared to provide the level of care he wanted. 

“I realized I didn’t have the tools or knowledge to truly help people in those moments,” Fuller explained. “That’s when I sought out CIT training.” 

The CIT program equips first responders with skills to de-escalate crises, recognize mental health needs, and connect individuals with appropriate resources. For Fuller, the training became a turning point, giving him the confidence to handle complex situations with compassion and precision. 

Captain Fuller looks toward the future, standing tall as a symbol of resilience and compassion. His commitment to helping others, especially during mental health crises, has earned him recognition and respect across Charlotte. 

One such moment came when Fuller responded to a wellness check for a young woman who had posted suicidal thoughts on social media. Using his CIT training, he quickly determined that she didn’t need police intervention or hospitalization. Instead, she needed guidance and support. 

“I remembered the QR code from my training that listed all the city’s mental health resources,” Fuller said. “I asked her to scan it, and we talked through her options. I also called her family to reassure them and ensured she had friends by her side until they arrived.” 

Reflecting on the experience, Fuller said, “I left that situation knowing I had done everything I could to help her. That’s why I do this job.” 

A Lifelong Dedication to Helping Others 

For Fuller, his passion for helping others goes beyond his professional training. It’s rooted in his upbringing. “I was raised in a village where everyone looked out for one another,” he said. “That sense of community is something I’ve carried with me my whole life.” 

Positioned in front of a Charlotte Fire truck, Captain Fuller exemplifies courage and service. As a firefighter and mental health advocate, he has made it his mission to improve lives and strengthen his community. 

When asked what drives him to go above and beyond, Fuller humbly attributes it to his belief in doing the right thing. “Helping people isn’t something I feel forced to do—it’s who I am,” he said. “If I have something you need, it’s yours. It’s that simple.” 

A Leader in Peer Support 

Fuller’s commitment to mental health doesn’t stop at CIT training. He is also a key member of Charlotte Fire’s peer support team, which provides emotional and mental health resources to firefighters. 

“We see things most people never have to see,” Fuller said. “Peer support gives us a way to process those experiences and take care of each other.” 

In his fire gear, Captain Andre Fuller showcases the dual roles of strength and empathy that define his career. His efforts to support mental health awareness have changed the way first responders approach crises. 

As a peer supporter, Fuller serves as a bridge to professional resources, often encouraging his colleagues to seek therapy. “I tell everyone—therapy isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength. I go myself because it helps me stay grounded,” he said. 

Recognition for a Job Well Done 

The First Responder Award recognizes Fuller’s ability to bring CIT principles to life, both in the field and within his department. The award citation highlights his skill in de-escalating crises, connecting individuals to resources, and encouraging others to embrace mental health training. 

“Captain Fuller exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate first responder,” the citation read. “His dedication to helping others, both in the community and within Charlotte Fire, is a testament to his leadership and heart.” 

Fire Chief Reginald Johnson lauded Fuller’s exceptional dedication and impact, saying, “Captain Fuller’s work exemplifies the very best of what Charlotte Fire represents. His ability to combine technical training with genuine compassion has not only saved lives but also set a powerful example for others. He is a leader who understands that the most important part of this job is the human connection. Our department, and our community, are stronger because of him.” 

Captain Fuller stands ready at the training academy, representing the dedication required to excel in the fire service. His focus on mental health intervention has set a new standard for compassionate leadership in Charlotte Fire. 

Inspiring Others to Act 

As Fuller accepted the award, he expressed hope that his story would inspire others to seek CIT training and become advocates for mental health. 

“To anyone considering CIT training, I’d say go for it,” he said. “It’s not just about helping others—it’s about being the person you’re meant to be. We all have a role to play in making our community stronger.” 

For Captain Andre Fuller, the work continues. Whether he’s responding to a fire, offering a listening ear to a colleague, or helping someone through a crisis, he does it all with the same guiding principle: care, compassion, and a belief in the power of community. 

Captain Andre Fuller stands proudly with his mother, Betty Fuller, after receiving the First Responder Award at this morning's ceremony. Their shared moment celebrates his dedication to mental health advocacy and the support system that has inspired his work.