Advancing the Field of Alternative Response 2026 Convening

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Join national leaders in Chicago for two days of panels and conversation focused on “Establishing Permanence”— ensuring that alternative response becomes a recognized profession and a durable part of public safety systems. These programs are no longer “alternative”, they are becoming integral components of the public safety and wellness infrastructure.

Historically, 911 systems dispatch police to all types of emergencies—mental health crises, wellness checks, disputes—regardless of whether police are the best-equipped responders. Alternative response programs take a different approach, sending unarmed professionals like clinicians, peer responders, or mediators to appropriate calls. These programs are growing rapidly, but the work still lacks the structure and visibility of a true field.

That’s why this convening matters. Just like doctors, lawyers, police officers, and every other profession, practitioners in this field need infrastructure: standards, support systems, and a strong network. They need a professional identity, and they need a regular space to connect, reflect, and grow together. And they need a name (ideally, without a transient descriptor like “alternative”) that reflects their permanence in the public safety ecosystem.

Our vision is for this convening to become that space. A yearly gathering where people say “see you next year,” because they know that the professional infrastructure will be there to support them in this important work.

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We ask that you limit attendees to three people per organization.

Regular Registration: January 23 – May 15, $500

Late Registration: May 16 – June 1, $550

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Learn more and register here: https://2026arconvening.splashthat.com/