Rural Resilience

12/31/2025

Please consider Rural Resilience for the 2026 Innovative Educational Tax Credit!

12/09/2025

We are thrilled to welcome our new Rural Resilience Executive Director, Lauren Smith!

Lauren Smith is bringing a unique blend of nonprofit leadership, clinical expertise, and deep commitment to the well-being of rural families. A Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Lauren earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Palm Beach Atlantic University, where she strengthened her passion for integrating evidence-based practice with compassionate, community-focused care.

During her graduate studies, Lauren served as a charge nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, an experience that shaped the foundation of her career. Children and families have always been at the center of her work. After completing her Master’s degree in Leadership and Administration she directed Women and Infant Services at Baptist Health in Boynton Beach, Florida, where she supported teams caring for mothers, infants, and growing families.

Upon passing her national boards as a Family Nurse Practitioner, Lauren relocated to Bozeman, where she played a key role in building the new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit from the ground up. Her work ensured that rural communities throughout southwest Montana would finally have access to the specialized, high-quality care their newborns needed close to home.

Lauren later expanded her leadership into the nonprofit sector, serving as Executive Director of Stafford Animal Shelter in Livingston. She guided the organization through the aftermath of the historic Yellowstone River flood, strengthening operations and supporting both staff and community members during a critical time. Her ability to build resilient teams, stabilize systems, and advocate for vulnerable populations naturally led her to Rural Resilience, where she now blends her healthcare background with mental and behavioral health leadership to support families.

Lauren is happily married and the proud mother of two children. Her vibrant home includes four dogs, three cats, and a flock of ducks—an energetic mix that reflects her lifelong love of caregiving. Children have always been the root and inspiration of her career, and she will continue to champion their well-being through her leadership at Rural Resilience.

11/20/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Laramie Roberts, a mental health therapist to Rural Resilience!

Laramie is passionate about supporting the emotional well-being of students and their families. She works to create a calm, welcoming space where young people can feel heard, understood, and empowered. Her approach focuses on helping students navigate stress, friendships, identity, and life transitions while building confidence and healthy coping skills. She is grateful to be part of the rural communities and is looking forward to working closely with staff, parents, and caregivers to support student growth and wellness.

11/01/2025

We are deeply inspired by Bridget and the outstanding support she provides as the Lead Behavior Analyst! Read the feature article below in the local news.

Local behavior analyst Bridget Kelly lauded for her work with area stu

10/31/2025

🌟 Congratulations to Bridget Kelly! 🌟

Bridget was recognized as “The Champion” through the G.R.I.T. Award by the Montana Healthcare Foundation and School-Based Health Alliance! 🏆

Bridget’s genuine, resilient, and tenacious work continues to strengthen school-based health care and support the well-being of students across Park County. 💙

09/03/2025

08/15/2025

🚗 🚗 We have a WINNER! 🚗 🚗

Show your pride in rural Montana and support mental health services across our communities — all with one license plate!

When you purchase the Rural Resilience specialty plate, a portion of your fee goes directly to providing:
💛 Licensed therapists in rural schools
💛 Behavioral support for students & families
💛 Resources for educators and families

A huge thank you to Eubank Creative, Inc. for the amazing design and everyone who voted!

📅 Coming soon: You’ll see the winning plate on the road later this year!


Let’s hit the road for resilience — together.

08/12/2025

Meet our 2025-2026 Rural Resilience MSU School Counseling Intern at Arrowhead School!

My name is Hailie Wise, and I’m thrilled to be the school counselor intern at Arrowhead. I’m originally from California, but I’ve come to truly enjoy the pace and beauty of life here in Montana. I chose school counseling because I have a deep passion for working with children and a strong desire to support them in becoming the best versions of themselves. My role is to help students build the skills they need to succeed in and out of the classroom, while also partnering with families and teachers to create a safe and supportive school environment. Whether it's helping students navigate friendships, manage emotions, or set academic goals, I am here to listen, encourage, and guide.

I am especially passionate about serving rural communities and finding creative, effective ways to bring greater access to mental health support. I believe every community has unique strengths and needs, and I’m committed to meeting students and families where they are with services that make sense for them.

Outside of school, I love spending time outdoors—whether it’s hiking, backpacking, or floating the river—and also enjoy traveling whenever I get the chance. I look forward to getting to know your children and working together to help them thrive throughout their time at Arrowhead!

07/30/2025

TWO MORE DAYS! Help us finish strong in supporting our rural Park County schools!

https://www.give-a-hoot.org/organization/ruralresiliencemt

Join me in supporting our local community through GIVE A HOOT!

07/20/2025

Hello Rural Resilience friends! We only have two weeks left in the GIVE A HOOT campaign! Help us by donating today!

https://www.give-a-hoot.org/organization/ruralresiliencemt