Raise awareness of the CIT program with the public
It is important to build public awareness of the CIT program for a variety of reasons. Individuals with mental illness and their families can only request a CIT officer during a crisis if they know that the program is available. Also, community awareness helps to support the sustainability of the program, by weaving it into the fabric of the community. This support is key when the CIT program seeks funding and the support of new leaders (such as mayors and police chiefs). Also, community support keeps the core partner organizations invested in the program because the community has higher expectations for the crisis response system.
To raise awareness of the CIT program with the public, partners should consider the following activities:
- Work with the media to publish stories about the program's successes
- Integrate the CIT program into public events such as fundraising walks, citizen's police academies and mental health awareness day events
- Distribute information about the CIT program through mental health provider organizations, mental health advocacy organizations and other community groups
Perspectives: Many of the needs for the CIT training should be met through in-kind donations from the partner organizations or other community groups. For details, read NAMI's resource, The Cost of CIT.