Presented by:
“Crisis to Connection: Restoring Safety, Dignity, and Hope”
The 2026 Northwest Regional Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Conference is a gathering for first responders, behavioral health professionals, crisis responders, advocates and others focusing on crisis intervention team programming.
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The two-day conference in Spokane, Washington will revolve around the theme of "Crisis to Connection: Restoring Safety, Dignity, and Hope" and feature keynote presentations, an awards banquet, breakout sessions and networking opportunities.
Keynote Speakers
Day 1:
Ray Roberts
Ray Roberts is the Senior Advisor of Urban Development for Unified Champion Schools with Special Olympics North America, where he works to expand inclusive programming in major metropolitan school districts across the country. His work focuses on creating environments where young people of all abilities feel seen, supported, and valued, while promoting inclusion, mental health awareness, and community leadership.
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Before dedicating his career to advocacy and youth development, Roberts played nine seasons in the NFL after being selected tenth overall in the 1992 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks, later finishing his career with the Detroit Lions. His message of compassion, humanity, and connection aligns closely with this year’s theme, “Crisis to Connection: Restoring Safety, Dignity, and Hope.” Join us May 19, 2026, in Spokane, Washington, to hear Ray share his inspiring perspective on building stronger, more compassionate communities.
Day 2:
Bart Stevens & Steve Einhaus
Bart and Steve's story began in 1997 when then Officer Stevens responded to a crisis call involving Einhaus that escalated into a significant use-of-force incident. Ten years later, the two met again during a Crisis Intervention Training (CIT), where they were invited to share their experience. What began as a difficult encounter evolved into an ongoing partnership dedicated to learning, reflection, and improving crisis response.
Today, Stevens and Einhaus present together at CIT trainings and conferences, offering a rare perspective from both sides of a crisis encounter. Einhaus now serves as a Peer Specialist at Eastern State Hospital, supporting others in their recovery, while Stevens brings nearly 30 years of experience with the Spokane Police Department as a Patrol Lieutenant. Together, they deliver a powerful keynote that highlights the importance of empathy, collaboration, and understanding in building more compassionate and effective responses to behavioral health crises. Join us May 20, 2026, in Spokane, Washington, to hear their remarkable story
For a detailed list of sessions, including presenter information, please see the conference registration website.
Conference Information
Dates
May 19-20, 2026
Location
Northern Quest Resort and Casino
Spokane, Washington
Registration
Registration includes:
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Two days of sessions
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All meals (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner)
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Admission to the networking event
Cost: $350
Registration closes May 8
Scholarships to cover registration costs may be available. Email ocbhji@gobhi.org for more information.
NW Regional CIT Conference Award Nominations
Award Categories:
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CIT Success Story of the Year
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CIT Lived Experience Advocate of the Year
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CIT MHP of the Year
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CIT First Responder of the Year
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CIT Coordinator of the Year
Submission Deadline: April 10
Please be detailed with your submissions.
To nominate:
Sponsorship and Vendor Opportunities
Why Your Support Matters
Training budgets remain tight, particularly for rural and under-resourced agencies. Scholarships ensure that responders who most need crisis intervention team training have access to it. Your contribution allows us to:
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Provide full and partial scholarships for attendees
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Host nationally recognized instructors and subject matter experts
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Keep the conference affordable for agencies across the region
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Strengthen coordinated crisis response systems
Sponsorship Levels
Platinum Sponsor – $2,500+
• Logo on conference materials & website
• Banner/signage placement at keynote sessions
• Recognition at opening ceremony
• Vendor table included
Gold Sponsor – $1,000
• Logo on materials & website
• Recognition during the conference
• Vendor table included
Silver Sponsor – $500
• Logo on website
• Recognition in printed materials
Bronze Sponsor – $250
• Recognition in program & signage
Next steps
To discuss sponsorship options, please email Jason Ritter, Sergeant, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office at jasonrit@clackamas.us
Vendor Information
Vendor / Exhibitor Only – $250
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One exhibitor table—8-foot tables
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Power not guaranteed, will need to work with venue for options
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Includes breakfast and lunch for both conference days
Lodging
Special conference rate of $139 per night at the Northern Quest Resort hotel
Reservations must be made over the phone to receive the conference rate. Call:
1-877-871-6772
and let them know you're attending the Northwest Regional CIT Conference.
Reserve your room by April 27 to receive the discounted rate.
Questions?
Email ocbhji@gobhi.org