The Cross-Training curriculum is designed to enable practitioners and administrators from a variety of service systems to work together, in programs they helped design, to improve collaboration among their agencies. Local staff work with Cross-Training staff to present the training, using three manuals, for planners, facilitators, and participants. The Cross-Training material is presented in modules complete with handouts and training visual aids that can be taken back for training replication and staff meetings. Some key knowledge and skill development areas addressed in the core curriculum include:

• The dynamics of the connection between substance abuse and sexual behavior.
• Information about substance abuse, HIV, TB, and STDs and the related health disparities that exist between various populations.
• Screening and counseling methods to support treatment and behavior change.
• Strategies for collaboration across agency lines.
• An examination of the differences between restrictions for confidentiality and sharing information with respect to infectious disease, substance abuse, mental health, and criminal justice.
• The creation of community-wide action plans for improving access and client outcomes.

Cross-Training often begins by helping participants explore the different policy, philosophical, funding, and training frameworks in which providers work. It always changes the conversation. Not only does it increase our knowledge base and skills, Cross-Training also sharpens our planning and thinking about innovative programs and service solutions. Ultimately, it moves integrated teams to action for improving outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.