Partner Spotlight: LiveWell49
Advancing Mental Health & Well-Being in Park County
We are proud to highlight our Mental Health & Well-being Community Impact partner, The LiveWell49 Coalition. Established in 2017, LiveWell49 has become a cornerstone in addressing health and well-being in Park County, utilizing a collective impact model to foster collaboration, efficiency, and community connection.
Montana continues to grapple with alarming suicide rates, with recent CDC data placing the state at the top nationally. Park County, in particular, faces a dire situation, holding the third highest suicide rate at 41.8%. This statistic underscores the urgent need for effective mental health interventions and community support. The 2023 Park County Community Foundation’s “We Will Park County” report highlights this crisis, noting that 62% of residents perceive an increase in mental health issues and suicides, with 22% identifying mental health as the county’s most significant challenge.
LiveWell49 is at the forefront of tackling these issues through collaborative efforts. The coalition engages over 300 individuals from more than 60 organizations, working together to address upstream factors that contribute to mental health crises. By prioritizing connection and belonging, Greater Gallatin United Way and LiveWell49 aims to build a supportive community environment that prevents individuals from reaching a crisis point.
The coalition’s approach is multi-faceted:
Facilitation: Regular gatherings are organized to support progress and cultivate emerging community initiatives.
Participation: LW49 staff are active members of 12 local boards and coalitions, striving for system alignment and goal advancement.
Communication: The coalition keeps the community informed through a weekly newsletter, website updates, social media, and in-person outreach.
Training: LW49 provides essential mental health promotion and suicide prevention training, leveraging expertise from across the state.
LiveWell49’s efforts are rooted in a comprehensive understanding of local needs, drawn from data including the 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment, PCCF’s We Will Park County data, and feedback from post-flood outreach. Their work has already led to notable achievements, such as developing a new drop-in center, initiating mobile crisis support, and offering QPR and Mental Health First Aid trainings across the county.
Donate Today to Join Us in Supporting LiveWell49
Greater Gallatin United Way is committed to partnering with LiveWell49, backing their vital work, and enhancing mental health and well-being in our community collaboratively. As part of National Suicide Prevention Month, we encourage everyone to support this coalition’s efforts and our other Mental Health & Well-being Community Impact partners. By spreading awareness, participating in community initiatives, and donating to support our collective work, we can contribute to a more connected and supportive environment for all.
Together, we can make a difference and foster a community where everyone feels valued and supported. For more information on LiveWell49 and how you can get involved, visit their website or contact us at Greater Gallatin United Way.
