AscendRural aims to bridge the gap between innovation and central Minnesota
Community and technology partners gathered in Staples this February to discuss youth mental health prevention in rural central Minnesota and how to pilot new programs to improve access.
Community leaders, technology partners tackle rural-focused challenges
One fifth of Americans live in rural communities. But when it comes to solving community challenges like youth mental health, technology innovations struggle to take rural America into account.
"Most systems and economic models are incentivized to serve the largest number of people possible," says Melissa Kjolsing, managing director of AscendRural, a technology and implementation hub focused on improving rural well-being. "This approach often overlooks rural communities, leading to new products and services that are not designed with them in mind. By creating a space where rural communities can engage and explore innovative solutions, AscendRural aims to position rural areas as viable markets for new technologies and ways of thinking."
AscendRural, initiated by Sourcewell in partnership with communities in central Minnesota, identifies and implements technology to solve existing needs within rural America. Starting in Sourcewell’s five-county central Minnesota service region, the program brings together local leaders and innovative technology partners to pilot solutions that have the potential to scale nationally. Pilots support opportunities in mental and physical health, internet connectivity, and social infrastructure. AscendRural’s first pilot program, which addresses mental health prevention services for youth, will launch in March.
Five community organizations and two technology partners came together in Staples, Minn. in late February to discuss the needs of rural families and youth, common barriers to access, and how technology providers can collaborate with rural leaders to find new answers to persistent challenges.
“Rural communities face unique challenges, yes, but we are also a place of unmatched collaboration —where leaders are skilled at pooling resources, making a plan for collective action, and digging in to bring work to life,” says Kjolsing.
That spirit of collaboration and problem solving is exactly why leaders like Shane Riffle, CEO of Brainerd Family YMCA, are stepping up as pilot partners.
“Access to quality care is critical,” he says. “We need to reach people where they are, using new tools if possible. It’s important to help the most vulnerable in our community, those with the least access. Serving the broader community is part of our mission and why we exist. This [pilot program] presents an opportunity to extend our work beyond the walls of the facility.”
Kjolsing shares in his enthusiasm. “I’m beyond excited to see what our community and technology partners will accomplish — not just for youth mental health needs in this first pilot, but for the physical health, connectivity, and social infrastructure pilots in the future. Rural America deserves a seat at the table when it comes to innovation, and I can’t think of anywhere better for that work to begin than right here.”
Community partners
CentraCare – St. Cloud Hospital Clara's House is a partial hospitalization program (PHP) serving children and adolescents ages 3-18 struggling with emotional and/or mental/behavioral difficulties, providing intensive mental health services including a comprehensive assessment, crisis stabilization, psychiatric medication management, individual and family therapy, art, music, and recreation therapy, occupational therapy, academics/school, parent support groups, and aftercare support planning.
Selander Coaching and Consulting
Selander Coaching and Consulting’s provides mental health awareness, suicide awareness, suicide prevention, and other societal education services to under-served and at-risk communities. Selander Coaching and Consulting maintains and facilitates Petals of Peace Community Resource and Drop-in Center which provides a neutral, safe, and welcoming space for community members to access resources and services.
The Shop is a non-profit charitable organization committed to providing community support to all teens and young adults as they transition into independence and adulthood. The Shop is a space where youthful energy is harnessed into creative energy with opportunities to explore potential, build lasting relationships, and establish personal connections.
Smiles for Jake’s mission is to educate, offer resources, and provide response efforts aimed to challenge and change the stigma around mental health and suicide by building a culture of compassion, connection, and hope. Through various community events, partnerships, and smiles boxes, these efforts aim to spread joy and create a positive ripple effect. Smiles for Jake believes the smallest acts of kindness will have a profound impact to support those who need it most.
The Brainerd Family YMCA continues to be a community hub, providing programs and services which help develop strong and resilient youth, support healthy living and wellness, and to also create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Through partnerships with Crow Wing Energized, Crow Wing County Community Services, Brainerd Public Schools, and many others, the Y has worked to expand collaborative efforts as well as develop supportive programs and classes for everyone, including the most vulnerable community members.
Technology partners
Supportiv is a real-time, anonymous, 24/7 digital peer-to-peer support platform. It facilitates small, moderated group conversations addressing mental, emotional, and social challenges while providing valuable resources for youth.
Psyche Care is a digital caregiver support platform designed to empower parents to become therapeutic caregivers. It offers evidence-based techniques to help caregivers navigate daily challenges and crisis situations with confidence, while providing tools and guidance to help caregivers create strong support systems and build resilience in children facing mental health challenges.
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Media contact
Alie McInerney
Director of State and Regional Marketing & Communication
Sourcewell
218-256-9920
alie.mcinerney@sourcewell-mn.gov
About AscendRural
AscendRural is a technology innovation and implementation hub dedicated to boosting the well-being of rural America. Initiated by Sourcewell, it embodies their commitment to helping communities thrive. The program brings together local leaders and the innovation community to pilot technology solutions. The goal is to address accessibility, availability, and affordability issues while accounting for what makes rural communities unique.