SSI: First-Response for Chicagoans Experiencing Addiction & Mental Health Crises

The University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy will host the fifth annual Summer of Social Impact, its signature summer initiative designed to spark dialogue and engagement among policymakers, civic leaders, and researchers across public, private, and non-profit sectors as they examine new ideas and policy approaches to improve life in cities, from Chicago and beyond.  Launched in 2017, the Summer of Social Impact has grown into a multimodal experience of events, storytelling, and other engagement opportunities.

This year’s initiative, entitled “ReTHINK: Policy and Prosperity for the Future of Cities,” will be anchored by three public events that examine the intertwined issues of health, education, and economic opportunity as American cities look to the post-COVID world.  Through in-depth discussion on critical challenges and opportunities in these areas, Summer of Social Impact will explore the latest research and evidence-based policy reforms with the potential to reduce inequality and strengthen urban policies and systems.  In addition to the three public events planned for 2021, Harris faculty will host a series of SSI Salons to convene scholars, practitioners, and partners across sectors for an in-depth discussion of current work and to further explore questions of equity on topics ranging from property tax reform to early childhood development and education.

Join the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy and Health Lab on July 27th for a conversation about crisis response in Chicago. Cities across America are seeking safer and more effective ways to assist people experiencing mental health crises, substance use disorders, and other behavioral health concerns. This conversation with partners from the Chicago Department of Public Health, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC),  University of Illinois Chicago Mile Square Health Center, and Chicago Beyond will explore the reimagining of crisis response in Chicago, including the city's pilot of several promising alternative first responses to improve crisis prevention, patient outcomes, and reduce the risks of violence or arrests in such encounters.