Freeborn ERTs are designed for rapid response to veterans and community members in crisis. The ERTs will be be highly trained emergency crisis counselors while also maintaining an EMT-B (State of Illinois). The ERT skills to a wide range of mental health crises. While also being trained to judge a situation and activating appropriate levels of law enforcement environment.

1.  Crisis Intervention Training (CIT): 

Comprehensive education on identifying and responding to various mental health conditions, focusing on empathy, communication, and de-escalation techniques.

2. Trauma-Informed Care: 

Training in understanding and recognizing the impact of trauma on behavior, ensuring that responses are sensitive to the individual's experience and aimed at minimizing further trauma.

3. Nonviolent Crisis Intervention:  

Specific techniques for managing difficult situations without the use of force, including verbal de-escalation, personal safety measures, and safe restraint methods if absolutely necessary.

4.  Mental Health First Aid: 

Basic training in mental health first aid, enabling team members to provide initial support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.

5. Cultural Competency: 

Education on cultural sensitivity and awareness, ensuring that ERT personnel can effectively communicate and respond to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

ECHO’s Rapid Response Team Member plays a vital role in The Freeborn Initiative’s rapid response to mental health crises and emergencies. Operating primarily via motorcycle are the first to arrive on the scene, providing crucial intervention and support in high-stakes situations. The position demands superior motorcycle riding skills, the ability to work closely with a partner, and a commitment to ongoing training and relocation as required.

• Motorcycle Response: Safely and efficiently operate a motorcycle in various conditions, including side-by-side riding with another motorcycle for extended periods.
• Emergency Medical Support: Provide immediate primary emergency medical care as an EMT-Basic (Illinois) until additional help arrives.
• Crisis Intervention: Deliver crisis counseling and de-escalation support, utilizing specialized training to handle mental health emergencies effectively.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other ECHO Response Team members, local authorities, and community organizations to coordinate crisis response efforts.