Police departments across the country may be able to better “protect and serve” the public by tapping more fully into community resources.
That’s what Norm Taylor, senior adviser to both the Saskatchewan and Ontario deputy ministers responsible for policing and community safety, experienced about four years ago when this more holistic approach to policing helped save the life of a young Canadian girl.
“There was a young girl, who was being treated by an alcohol addiction counselor, found in a snow bank minutes from death,” said Taylor.
“Since we launched Whole of Government, we found out she previously had been arrested, visited the emergency room and lived in a violent home. The focused approach we used connected her with the services necessary, keeping her on a positive path ever since.”
The Penn State Justice and Safety Institute will help introduce the Whole of Government model at the International Conference on Proven Collaborative Strategies for Improved Community Wellness and Safety at the Radisson Hotel Valley Forge in King of Prussia, March 16-17.
An evidence-based, risk-driven approach of collaboration between government agencies, Whole of Government —successful in several Canadian cities but a new concept within the United States — brings together community leaders on a regular basis to discuss at-risk individuals.
The model’s success hinges on community agencies sharing information and determining the best people within the group to provide interventions to the at-risk individuals, said Taylor.
The two-day conference will mirror the Whole of Government model, with leaders from various community agencies, including law enforcement, health care and research, serving as presenters. Several law enforcement groups from Pennsylvania and Maryland are expected to be in attendance.
For more information on the Penn State Justice and Safety Institute, visit jasi.outreach.psu.edu.