First Responder Deflection Mentoring Initiative

Link

https://www.cossup.org/Learn/PeerToPeer/deflection

Additional Links

Mentor Site Information Sheet

Sponsor

Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA)
Initiative of Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program (COSSUP) funded by BJA.

Description

Offers an opportunity for first responder organizations operating deflection initiatives for people with substance use disorders (SUDs) to apply to become a mentor site to provide peer-to-peer mentoring to other first responder organizations interested in establishing or enhancing a deflection program. Promotes deflection as an innovative model to support individuals in the community with opioid, stimulant, and other SUDs, mental health and/or co-occurring disorders while avoiding involvement with the justice system.

What This Program Offers

For the First Responder Deflection Mentoring Initiative, mentors will:

• Serve as a mentor site from July 2024 through September 2025
• Offer mentoring and technical assistance in hybrid format to 3-5 peer communities during the year
• Host a 2-day in-person visit for each mentee team to facilitate peer-to-peer exchanges and other technical assistance, which may include:
  • Observing program activities in the field, such as ride-alongs and outreach to individuals in the community
  • Visiting relevant sites, agencies, and organizations, including treatment providers and peer recovery groups
  • Meeting key personnel and partner representatives
  • Attending administrative, program, and/or community meetings
  • Reviewing data, data collection, and evaluation
  • Understanding funding mechanisms and plans for sustainability
• Provide follow-up assistance 4-6 weeks after the site visit and on a limited, as-needed basis after the end of the mentorship period

Who Can Receive Services from This Program

Organizations currently operating first responder-led deflection initiatives are eligible to apply to become a mentor site. Eligible organizations include:

• Law enforcement agencies
• Fire departments
• Emergency medical services (EMS) departments
• Co-responder, community paramedicine, or community responder models

Priority will be given to deflection initiatives that are located in rural areas, respond to stimulant use disorders, and serve racially and ethnically diverse communities.

First responder organizations in any local jurisdiction interested in establishing or enhancing a deflection program are eligible to apply as a mentee site.

Geographic Coverage

Nationwide

Application

Mentee applications may be submitted through the online form. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and assistance is provided to mentees at no cost.

The program is not currently accepting applications for mentor sites.

For additional questions or information:
info@cossup.org

Topics

Community Planning and Coalition Building • Emergency Medical Services • Housing and Homelessness • Law Enforcement • Mental Health • Social Service Supports • Substance Use Disorder • Treatment