In 2001, the Foundation went through an internal review and identified three areas of focus. The following areas of interest to the foundation are:

• Rural Mental Health
• Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System
• Improving Access to Services to Underserved Populations

In 2006, the Foundation went through a strategic plan which built on the 2001 findings but also outlined specific program strategies which are based on the Foundation's mission and meaningfully contribute to the Foundation's vision. They encompass research, education, community leadership, public relations public policy and advocacy. The list is not exhaustive, but it is in line with the Foundation's strategic plan.

1: Improve the delivery, accessibility and the public's awareness of high quality mental health services in rural communities.

Program Strategies:

• Identify best practice and evidence-based grantmaking in rural communities.
• Identify and address barriers to accessing high quality, mental health care in rural areas.
• Support educational and training opportunities for those who identify, refer and treat mental illnesses in rural communities.

2: Support Efforts to Divert Mentally Ill People away from the Criminal Justice System

Program Strategies:

• Support new programs providing treatment and diversion for MH/CJ both in and out of jail.
• Establish a continuum of evidenced-based diversion and reintegration programs.
• Expand the number of mental health courts in rural counties.
• Support: 1) studies that evaluate the outcomes of diversion program, and 2) research on the cost effectiveness of diversion programs.

3: Improve Access to Cost Effective, Culturally Competent, High Quality Care in Underserved Populations

Program Strategies:

• Identify and support promising efforts to: 1) ensure parity for physical health and mental health benefits, and 2) improve access to care.
• Support: 1) research on best practice strategies that reduce mental health disparities, and 2) community implementation of promising research.
• Provide grants to train culturally competent workers.
• Participate with diverse groups that are developing mental health agendas and Support efforts to deliver cost effective mental health services.
• Support education and communication efforts: 1) to make the public aware of available mental health treatments, and 2) that overcome the stigma associated with having or treating mental health conditions.