how we help through Partnerships
HRDC is committed to leveraging partnerships to build a better community. By collaborating with organizations that bring unique strengths to the table, we can amplify our collective impact and better address the diverse needs of Southwest Montana. Our current partnership with the Gallatin Behavioral Health Coalition (GBHC) and Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) exemplifies this approach.
The Gallatin Youth Behavioral Health Campus
The Gallatin Behavioral Health Coalition (GBHC) is partnering with HRDC to purchase the future site of the Gallatin Youth Behavioral Health Campus. Formerly known as the Boot Strap Ranch and located at 8977 Dry Creek Rd in Belgrade, this 33-acre campus has buildings to safely serve between 8 and 16 young people in short-term to longer-term residential placements, in addition to staff housing, an activities building, gymnasium, cafeteria, commercial kitchen, barn, and outbuildings from the original homestead. The campus will be operated by the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR).
The Critical need
This campus is envisioned as a place where children and adolescents from throughout the region can have their behavioral health needs met, enabling them to thrive as individuals, with their families, and in their community.
The need for such a facility is urgent, given the high rates of mental health challenges among youth in Montana, including alarming rates of suicide, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. In the last 12 months over 14% of Gallatin County teens have attempted suicide and 21% say they are seriously considering suicide. YBGR receives 150 calls each month for referrals
HRDC's Involvement
HRDC is proud to support this critical project through temporary land acquisition, addressing one of the top community needs identified in our most recent assessment: behavioral health. Our expertise in land acquisition is a vital asset to the GBHC, enabling this project to move forward effectively.
This project aligns perfectly with our mission as a community action agency to respond to our community’s greatest needs. By entering this crucial partnership with YBGR and the GBHC, we are taking a significant step towards addressing the critical behavioral health needs of our youth, ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to build brighter futures.
What funding is needed
In this first phase, we are seeking funding to purchase the campus, invest in modest improvements to make the campus safe for young people in care and staff members, and have sufficient programming funds to ensure no child is turned away because of insufficient insurance coverage or other financial concerns. We need to raise an initial $3.75 million to purchase the property.
If you would like to donate to this project, please fill out the donation form below. We are incredibly grateful for your support.
Photos courtesy of Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties