State Strategies to Strengthen Local Community Responder Programs

Hosted by The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center

Our national Expanding First Response Commission recently issued new recommendations, which include actionable guidance for state leaders to launch, strengthen, and sustain local community first responder programs. These programs reduce harm, hospital visits, and the burden on police for emergencies related to mental health and homelessness. This first-of-its-kind commission was launched in 2023 and brings together a unique mix of voices—first responders, state and local officials and policymakers, people with lived experience, researchers, and advocates. The first set of recommendations relate to funding and workforce, and more recommendations will be published in the coming months.

Join this virtual discussion with three commissioners to explore community responder strategies and policies on the following topics:

• Funding
• Workforce development
• Dispatch integration
• Data collection
• Strategic partnerships

This event is open to anyone but intended for state leaders, inside and outside of government.

Speakers:

• Andrew Dameron, Director, Denver 9-1-1, Department of Public Safety, City and County of Denver
• Anne Larsen, Deputy Program Manager, Behavioral Health, CSG Justice Center
• Candace Coleman, Community Strategy Specialist, Access Living
• Dr. Amy Watson, Professor, Wayne State University School of Social Work
• Felicia Lopez Wright, Project Manager, Behavioral Health, CSG Justice Center
• Melissa McKee, Community Response Expert and former Familiar Faces Outreach Specialist