SAMHSA’s GAINS Center Announces Criminal Justice Learning Collaboratives—Apply Today!
Application due date: January 25, 2023
SAMHSA’s GAINS Center for Behavioral Health and Justice Transformation, operated by Policy Research Associates, Inc. (PRA), is continuing to provide direct training and technical assistance to jurisdictions across the nation to better support people with behavioral health needs who are involved in the criminal justice system. The GAINS Center is currently soliciting applications from jurisdictions interested in collaborating with subject-matter experts through Criminal Justice Learning Collaboratives (LCs) designed to explore four topics:
- Trauma-Informed Treatment Courts
- Peer Integration in Treatment Courts
- Data-Driven Strategies for Reducing Frequent Systems Engagement
- Addressing the Housing Needs of People with Behavioral Health Conditions Who Are Justice-Involved
About the Criminal Justice LCs
The LC model brings together local jurisdiction teams to create coordinated local strategic plans and implementation strategies for the topic of focus. Selected teams for each LC will work intensively to determine optimal ways to implement best practices and define success indicators. Each topic-specific LC will engage subject-matter experts to work with jurisdiction teams during the implementation process and to facilitate peer-to-peer sharing. Through a virtual platform, selected teams will work together to learn and complete their implementation work while, at the same time, have the opportunity to share with other jurisdictions and receive an array of technical assistance from subject-matter experts across the country.
The LCs are designed to achieve four key objectives:
- Enhance collective knowledge of key issues and familiarity with the topic.
- Understand promising and evidence-based practices to address related issues.
- Develop strategic plans that focus on addressing the issue, with a focus on the implementation of policies, procedures, and best practices to improve treatment, services, and supports.
- Increase knowledge about challenges and lessons learned in implementing strategies through peer-to-peer sharing.
Application and Selection Process
- Applications for these solicitations are due January 25, 2023
- General requirements:
- Narrative (up to five pages)
- Expectations/guidelines will differ by LC topic
- List of key stakeholders who will participate on the team
- Letters of support or commitment from key partners
- Selected jurisdictions will be notified the week of February 6, 2023
