video learning series
Lessons Learned from Rural Practitioners
September 2025
overview
Strengthening rural justice through collaboration.
Grounded in the lived experiences of those serving on the front lines, this video series highlights real-world strategies and collaborative practices that strengthen outcomes for individuals impacted by substance use in rural communities.
Through authentic stories and practical examples, the Rural Justice Collaborative (RJC) aims to educate and inspire justice, behavioral health, public health, and community partners who are working to support positive change in rural areas.
Supported by the State Justice Institute and produced for the RJC by Mtn Craft in partnership with Rulo Strategies and the National Center for State Courts, this series captures the insights and lessons learned from rural leaders deeply engaged in cross-sector collaboration.
Jump to Lesson
Lesson 1
Embrace what is unique about rural communities.
Thriving in rural environments means honoring local culture, embracing realistic timelines, and designing solutions that fit available resources and partnerships. Success comes from leveraging what makes each community unique rather than relying on universal models.
Lesson 2
Find a champion.
A champion is someone with influence, compassion, or authority and can spark momentum by modeling commitment and encouraging others to get involved. Whether that person is a sheriff, police chief, EMS director, or county attorney, champions lend credibility, reduce barriers, and drive sustained progress.
Lesson 3
Build partnerships.
Effective partnerships begin with people who are dependable, collaborative, and community-focused. Diverse teams that include law enforcement, service providers, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations expand reach, deepen trust, and strengthen solutions.
Lesson 4
Find common ground.
Enduring collaboration requires partners to find shared purpose, even when their priorities or perspectives differ. Listening openly, using inclusive language, and focusing on common goals help bridge divides, dismantle silos, and promote collective success.
Lesson 5
Share resources.
In rural settings where capacity can be limited, sharing space, staff, tools, and expertise amplifies impact. Pooling resources builds trust, prevents duplication, and helps uncover untapped assets that can meet community needs more efficiently.
Lesson 6
Build trust with partners & community.
Trust develops through consistency, follow-through, and authentic engagement. By showing up, honoring commitments, and demonstrating long-term dedication, practitioners can strengthen relationships, reduce stigma, and enhance collaboration across sectors.
Lesson 7
Share success with the community.
Sharing accomplishments, both large and small, keeps communities informed, builds pride, and encourages ongoing partnership. Highlighting real stories of progress not only inspires others but reinforces the shared value of continued collaboration.
Lesson 8
Be persistent.
Meaningful progress takes time. Persistence, flexibility, and resilience are key to overcoming resistance and setbacks. By adapting, learning, and continuing to move forward, rural communities can transform challenges into sustainable success.