With the support of the Jacob and Valeria Langeloth Foundation, and in collaboration with the Council of State Governments Justice Center, Policy Research Associates is launching the Behavioral Health and Justice Leadership Academy initiative to promote the development of local leaders to address behavioral health and criminal justice issues in their communities. Through participation in the Leadership Academy initiative, local leaders from communities that have demonstrated a readiness for change will receive training and assistance as they carry out a strategic action plan. The goal is to improve public health and public safety outcomes for people with mental and substance use disorders in the justice system by supporting leaders to implement effective strategies in their cities and counties.

Twenty-five individuals will be selected to participate in the initiative, which will feature a two-day meeting in May 2016. Participants will work with a faculty of experts in the behavioral health and criminal justice fields to build a strategic plan for achieving their behavioral health/criminal justice goals. In addition, participants will have access to mentoring and virtual technical assistance for 12 months.

For more information or to apply for the Behavioral Health and Justice Leadership Academy, please download the solicitation. Applications are due by February 1, 2016.