What are the social forces that perpetuate high incarceration and recidivism rates among individuals with mental illness? What role do inadequacies and underfunding of social policies play? My current research focuses on the implementation and effectiveness of alternative police response models, such as the co-responder model. I also dive into the reasons these models are necessary in the first place. The aim of my research is to use community-engaged scholarship to answer these questions and to inform systemwide reforms to ensure better resource allocation and support for people with mental health challenges, as well as the broader community. By fostering consensus building and addressing political and cultural polarization, my work seeks to create a more unified approach to policy change and community support.