Reaching Rural: Advancing Collaborative Solutions

The Institute for Intergovernmental Research, on behalf of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA); the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); the State Justice Institute (SJI); and the National Association of Counties (NACo), is excited to share a new initiative, Reaching Rural: Advancing Collaborative Solutions. This initiative is part of BJA's Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP). 

Reaching Rural is a one-year initiative where participants receive coaching and participate in skill-building workshops as well as virtual and in-person learning experiences.

Participation includes:

• Travel and per diem costs to participate in an orientation, a field visit to observe the implementation of evidence-informed practices in a rural setting, and a closing session at the end of the 12 months
• Monthly mentorship and guidance aimed towards local needs
• Monthly assignments that help apply core concepts to local communities or regions
• Access to a diverse network of rural peers, innovative rural communities, and technical assistance providers
• Formal recognition for completing the planning initiative

This is not a grant opportunity. Participants will be reimbursed for their travel expenses when attending sponsored activities, but no additional funding is provided as a result of being selected for the Reaching Rural initiative. 

Access the solicitation (PDF)