CIT as Community Based Model
As the CIT model spread through other cities, a steering group composed of leaders from CIT programs developed a document to identify the core elements of a CIT model. This document recognizes the importance of community involvement in maintaining CIT programs. Steering groups in newly developing CIT programs are critical to success of the CIT model. The group provides a forum for the partnerships, networking and eventual community ownership. In Memphis, and in most of the CIT programs throughout the country, the steering groups take on the role of advocacy for the various components of the crisis intervention system, often obtaining significant funding for critical components of the psychiatric emergency system and other community based mental health efforts. The steering group also allows for communication around clinical issues which can, in turn, become formal case conferences focusing on individuals at high-risk of recidivism. The efforts of the Memphis founders of CIT led to a network of over 2700 CIT sites throughout the nation. There is also a national organization which provides a forum(CIT International) for CIT Programs to join together. The success of CIT throughout the nation is a testimony to the grassroots support generated to help those struggling with mental illness and the leadership provided by those determined to make a difference in their community.