Since the launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in 2022, communities across the country have made meaningful progress in building crisis response systems. Still, more work is needed to ensure everyone in a mental health crisis receives a mental health response. This session will examine how communities are advancing the pillars of a crisis continuum of care: someone to contact, someone to respond, and a safe place for help. Participants will gain insight into federal and state policy that launched 988 and expanded crisis services over the past five years. The session also will feature case studies of strong crisis systems and how they improve outcomes for people in crisis. Attendees will leave with practical strategies, resources, and a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead.