Plan for media attention
Media attention can build community support for a new CIT program and provides partner agencies with recognition for their efforts. It may be helpful to circulate a press release a few weeks before the training providing information about the new partnerships and the upcoming training. As much as possible, leaders from the core community partners should be available to respond to media inquiries. In addition, encourage the media to cover the graduation ceremony and interview officers and trainers about the program.
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.
Resources
Hamilton County (TN) CIT Program Media and Graduation CIT Public Rollout Plan