The Arc Baltimore has been partnering with the Baltimore City Police Department (BPD) for several years to provide Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) certification to officers, state troopers, and 9-1-1 call center employees.  While all members of the BPD receive enhanced training in behavioral health awareness and crisis response, the department is also working to certify 30% of its patrol ranks in CIT. Certified officers will respond to acute crisis calls because they are

skilled in de-escalation and community resources.

As an advocate, The Arc educates the BPD on how to best support and respond to people with disabilities. We provide an overview of disabilities, and a panel of people we support share their experiences. The session builds the officers’ understanding of various disabilities that can impact their interactions and encourages a lens of dignity and respect.