The Beacon Homeless Day Resource Center is partnering with Capital Neighborhoods Inc. to host a special Community De-escalation Training, designed to strengthen the tools, confidence, and shared understanding of those who live, work, serve, or gather in downtown Madison.
Every day, our neighborhoods bring together people from diverse backgrounds and experiences—including many facing significant mental health challenges, trauma, or moments of crisis. Whether you are a business owner, a nonprofit leader, a frontline staff member, or simply an engaged community resident, knowing how to respond skillfully can make an enormous difference.
This training offers a practical, supportive way to learn those skills—and to practice responding with steadiness, compassion, and clarity.
What to Expect
This engaging, interactive session will be facilitated by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a respected leader in mental health education and advocacy. Participants will gain:
- A grounded understanding of how mental health crises may present in public or workplace settings
- Simple, effective verbal and non-verbal techniques to de-escalate tense situations
- Tools for maintaining personal safety, setting boundaries, and recognizing when outside help is needed
- Guidance on responding in ways that uphold dignity—for yourself and for the individuals you encounter
The training is designed to be both informative and immediately useful. You will leave with practical approaches that support safer, more connected environments for everyone.
Limited Capacity
To ensure a quality experience, capacity is limited to the first 75 attendees. Early arrival is encouraged, as admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Event Details
Community De-escalation Training
Facilitator: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Date: Monday, December 1, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location:
St. Patrick Catholic Church – St. Raphael Cathedral Parish
404 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703
Room: L-Hall & Kitchen
Intended Audience:
Local businesses, neighborhood associations, nonprofits, service providers, volunteers, and community members invested in fostering a safe and supportive downtown environment.
Why This Matters
At The Beacon, we believe that strong communities are built not only through services and resources, but through shared responsibility, mutual respect, and practical skills that help us support one another. This collaboration with Capital Neighborhoods Inc. and NAMI reflects that commitment.
Together, we can build a downtown community that is safer, more resilient, and more compassionate.
If you have questions about the event, you may contact Nici Hawkins with The Beacon at: fhawkins@ccmadison.org for more information. We look forward to learning with you.