About this Event
Knoxville HEART would like to invite you to attend a special Valentine’s Day community update event to learn about the recently finalized Alternative Response Taskforce Report and to write Valentines to local elected officials. Attendees will urge lawmakers to “Have a Heart for Knoxville” by implementing a community responder program based on the Alternative Response Business and Service Delivery Plan (which we refer to as the “Taskforce Report”) developed by the Alternative Response Taskforce, which was finalized in late 2025.
The event will include a presentation on what the Alternative Response Taskforce Report recommends, Knoxville HEART’s assessment of the recommendations, and remarks from City Council Member Amelia Parker, followed by Q&A, open discussion, and Valentine-making. Valentine-making craft supplies, stamps, and envelopes will be provided, though attendees are welcome to bring additional supplies to share.
WHAT: “Have a Heart for Knoxville” Community Update and Valentines Writing Event
WHEN: Saturday, February 14 from 2 - 4 pm
WHERE: Knoxville-Oak Ridge Central Labor Council, 1522 Bill Williams Ave (also known has Hutchinson Ave on some GPS)
WHO: Members of the community who want to learn the latest on the Alternative Response Taskforce Report. Members of the media are also welcome.
COST: Free
A community responder team (also known as an alternative response team) uses unarmed responders trained in de-escalation, source connection, problem solving, first aid, and crisis response to respond to such situations as conflict resolution, wellness checks, substance use, suicidal ideation, noise complaints, and more. Such teams have been successful in over 200 cities across the country, offering an appropriate response to some community crises and easing the demand on police resources. In December 2025, Knoxville and Knox County wrapped up deliberations of an Alternative Response Taskforce and released a Taskforce Report with recommendations on implementing a community responder program in Knoxville.
According to the Alternative Response Taskforce Report, “Community responders are equipped to handle low-risk situations. Unlike police, whose training focuses on high-risk law enforcement scenarios, including understanding the legal code and firearms, community responders are hired and trained specifically for their skill in handling nonviolent situations. This includes practical de-escalation and behavioral health techniques, along with connecting individuals to local service providers.” (from introduction, p. 9)
Knoxville HEART believes that now is the time to establish a community responder team in Knoxville as first responders for nonviolent E-911 calls. Join us on February 14 to learn more and join the chorus of voices calling for the City of Knoxville to take action!
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The mission of Knoxville HEART is to advocate for community responder teams in Knoxville to improve outcomes for people in crisis and reduce demand for police involvement. We believe in compassionate, evidence-based response to mental health crises. To learn more, visit our website: www.knoxvilleHEART.org.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Knoxville-Oak Ridge Central Labor Council (KORCLC), 1522 Bill Williams Avenue, Knoxville, United States
USD 0.00
