Option C

Mission Statement

“Option C” is a seasoned team of current and retired first responders, military veterans, and first responder chaplains who have walked this path and are dedicated to providing support in all its forms, guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ. Through biblical principles, Thin Line Ministries offers mentorship, encouragement, healing, hope, and spiritual guidance with strict confidentiality and trust for everyone we serve. Our support is rooted in scripture, prayer, and the transformative power of God’s love. You’ll never walk alone.

First responders and military personnel, we are here for you. Call or share this number (619) 439-6673 to connect with someone from our team who gets it, who gets you. Whether you need support or direction, or you need to have a quick conversation, we’re here…help when you need it.

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MEET THE TEAM

Rick Ballard

Rick has been a dedicated fire service member since 1986, guided by his passion to “Love God and Love People” in all he does. He and his wife, Debi, have been married for 35 years and remain engaged in their church. Outside his firefighting career, Rick has volunteered as a youth coach and sports program manager. His career has given him the unique opportunity to operate with various public safety professionals at significant local events and gatherings. Rick has also taught at local fire departments and community colleges. He and Debi are proud parents of two sons serving as local firefighters.

Brent Brainard

Brent has over 20 years of dedicated service in Fire and EMS, rising from Firefighter/Paramedic to Deputy Chief. Recently, he has focused on supporting fellow firefighters and first responders facing life challenges and PTS. Having personally experienced and overcome PTS, Brent brings extensive knowledge and practical experience in guiding others toward resilience and healthy solutions. Married for 13 years, he and his wife are proud parents of two amazing children. Brent’s deep commitment to his faith and firsthand understanding of the unique struggles first responders face make him a trusted ally and advocate within the fire service community.

Criss Brainard

Criss served 45 years in the fire service from Firefighter/paramedic to Fire Chief with 10 of those years cross trained as law enforcement/fire investigator. He has been blessed to be married for 43 years and has two incredible sons. He has faced PTS and has healthy strategies to keep his backpack empty, primarily through his relationship with Jesus.

Jay Farrington

Jay’s journey reflects a commitment to service starting with 8 years in the U.S. Navy before an eventful 26-year San Diego law enforcement career as a SWAT operator, Gang Investigator, and Major Felony Crimes Supervisor. After retiring in 2022, he became the Director of School Safety at Grossmont Union High School District until 2024. Through his business, Jay is passionate about leadership training and coaching to law enforcement and private sector clients grounded in biblical principles. Jay supports first responders and the military, drawing on his experiences and faith to guide others toward peace, purpose, and strength through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Heidi Hensley

Heidi has served in pastoral ministry for the past 27 years with a special emphasis on families, kids, and parenting needs. Throughout those years Heidi also served as a Police Chaplain in the city of Stockton and now in El Cajon, having the perspective of being married to an officer, this has been an asset for many conversations. Heidi has been married to her husband Jason for 29 years and they have two adult sons.

Jason Hensley

Jason began his ministry as a pastor in early adulthood before transitioning into law enforcement at 29. He served on SWAT, instructed active shooter response, and worked as a gang/school resource officer and public information officer. Seven years ago, Jason returned to ministry and now serves as Men’s and Safety Pastor at Skyline Church. He’s married to Heidi, a pastor at Skyline and a police chaplain. They have two sons—one in ministry and the other a paramedic in San Diego. Jason vs also serves as a chaplain with the San Miguel Fire Department, passionately helping military and first responders find a thriving relationship with Christ.

Tylene Howater

Ty’s passion for supporting families and individuals in need comes from her own journey through hardship and finding freedom in Christ. With over 21 years of ministry experience, she continues serving as one of Skyline’s Pastors. In addition, she has served as a Chaplain on the SD Sheriff’s team for the past three years. During this time, she’s gained hands-on experience in a variety of crisis situations, including officer-involved shootings, supporting individuals through domestic violence, divorce, marriage difficulties, death, financial stress, conflict resolution, and emotional challenges such as depression, anxiety, and feelings of being lost.

Blake Low

Blake has served as a U.S. Navy SEAL since 2005, participating in various global conflicts. As he transitions out of military service, he and his wife are raising five children, ranging from teens to infant twins. Blake has personally overcome the challenges of PTSD through therapy and his faith in Jesus, and now seeks to use his experience to support and uplift others in similar situations.

Jeremy McGill

Jeremy McGill is an ordained minister, a Pastor at Skyline Church, and a Chaplain with Heartland Fire & Rescue. With over two decades in ministry, he enjoys connecting people with resources to overcome life’s challenges, blending both pastoral care and business leadership. He is married to his wife Wendy, and they have two children: Kiley (pursuing a BS in Nursing and married to her husband, Micah) and Brycen (attending Liberty University). Jeremy enjoys all kinds of outdoor activities, riding his Harley, and cheering on the Padres. His faith in Jesus Christ fuels his passion to serve with humility and grace.

John Munch

John has dedicated 18 years to law enforcement, rising to a supervisory role and passionately supporting fellow officers through complex professional and personal challenges. With a Master’s degree, he blends academic insight with hands-on experience and is committed to a Christ-centered life. Married for over 26 years, he is a proud father of four. John’s diverse experiences have helped him navigate the demands of law enforcement and Christian parenting. Now, he supports officers facing civil trials in his role at the City Attorney’s Office. A great listener, John is always ready to lend a helping hand.