Alternative 911 Emergency Response Implementation Cohort

GPL staff and alternative emergency response leaders discuss data in a conference room.

Launched in 2021, the GPL’s Alternative 911 Emergency Response Implementation Cohort provides applied research support and technical assistance to jurisdictions that are testing, implementing, or expanding alternative 911 emergency response. Our 2024-25 Implementation Cohort includes:  

Learn more about the GPL’s work to strengthen alternative emergency response programs here.  

Initial Cohort Achievements

  • The GPL has supported 24 Cohort participants representing 35 jurisdictions, ranging from large cities like Los Angeles, CA to small cities like Amherst, MA. 
  • After joining the GPL’s Implementation Cohort, nine Cohort members launched their alternative 911 response programs, ten Cohort members expanded their programs, and two additional members are set to expand their programs. 
  • Twelve Cohort members have collectively responded to nearly 175,000 calls. 
Headshot of Ryan Smith
The GPL Implementation Cohort is one of the best technical assistance experiences I’ve participated in. Sometimes, technical assistance requires a lot of producing extra deliverables for the organization, which becomes added work, and there is none of that here. This is striking that sweet spot of helping us with wherever we are at. Ryan Smith
Director of Durham’s Community Safety Department

Our Support

The GPL accepts jurisdictions for its Implementation Cohort on an annual basis through a formal application process. Selected jurisdictions receive pro bono applied research support and technical assistance that is tailored to meet their needs. Support lasts up to 10 months depending on project context and needs and may include:   

  • Active 1:1 coaching for local government staff;   
  • Access to adaptable implementation template materials and peer government examples including 911 call for service analysis approaches, call triage decision trees, responder team on scene and 911 protocols, responder team and 911 training curriculum, data strategy plans for program iteration and performance management, and service provider requests for proposals (RFPs);  
  • Real-time support from GPL staff and monthly jurisdiction-to-jurisdiction troubleshooting through GPL facilitated calls with peer governments. 
Which jurisdictions have participated in the GPL's Alternative 911 Emergency Response Implementation Cohort?
When does the next application round open?
Who should apply to the Cohort?
What should I do if I have additional questions?

Are you exploring, planning, implementing, or expanding alternative emergency response?

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