Leaders Unite to Strengthen Care for Kids at the Yellowstone Conference

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Leaders Unite to Strengthen Care for Kids at the Yellowstone Conference (1)

What moves the needle for kids? At this year’s Yellowstone Conference, the answer was clear—we are stronger together.

Under the theme “Stronger Together: Building Strategic Partnerships for Lasting Impact,” leaders from across Montana’s behavioral health, education, and nonprofit sectors gathered to share expertise, strengthen relationships, and explore collaborative solutions that reach beyond any one organization.

The conversations weren’t just inspiring—they were practical, thoughtful, and rooted in action. Every discussion pointed to one truth: lasting change happens when we work side by side.

The takeaway was simple but powerful: none of us can do this alone. Together, we can move the needle in ways that change lives for Montana kids and families.

Building Stronger Systems of Care

Throughout the day, panel discussions highlighted how connection, trust, and shared goals lead to stronger, more resilient systems of care. From deepening partnerships with Native communities to strengthening Montana’s behavioral health workforce, each session emphasized collaboration as the foundation of progress.

These exchanges moved beyond theory to what works in practice: aligning systems, listening to communities, and ensuring kids receive the right care, at the right time, in the right place.

Thank You to Our Yellowstone Conference Participants

Much gratitude to every speaker who brought their expertise, insight, and leadership to this year’s conference. Your voices shaped meaningful dialogue and drove forward a shared vision for Montana’s youth.

Panelists included:

  • Clint Valandra – Indigenous Education Coordinator, Billings Public Schools
  • Charlene “Charli” Sleeper – Founder, MMIP Billings Advocacy Project; Mental Health Worker, Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch
  • Sunny Day Real Bird – Director of American Indian Outreach, Montana State University Billings
  • David R. Blaine – CEO, Crow Times Youth and Elder Works
  • James C. Petrovich, PhD, MSW – Professor & Department Chair; Founding Director, Master of Social Work Program, Carroll College
  • Kate Chapin, MSW, LCSW – Executive Director, Center for Children, Families, and Workforce Development, University of Montana
  • Becky Lyons, EdD – Director of Career & Employment Services, Montana State University Billings
  • Jen Chancellor, MBA – University Development Counselor, Grand Canyon University
  • Matt Leavenworth, PhD, LCPC – Founder, Pay Love Forward; Vice Chair, Yellowstone County Suicide Prevention Coalition
  • Nina Hernandez – Executive Director, Friends of the Children – Eastern Montana; Nonprofit Leader & Consultant
  • Dennis Sulser, EdD – Retired CEO, Youth Dynamics; 40-Year Education & Healthcare Leader
  • Sarah Music – Director of Coordinated School Health, Montana Office of Public Instruction
  • Sierra Riesberg – Social Services & Behavioral Health Systems Leader
  • Erika Purington, MS – CEO, Allies in Aging; Leadership Coach & Nonprofit Executive
  • Meghan Peel – Interim Division Administrator, Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities Division, Montana DPHHS
  • Kirsten Smith, MPA, PMP – Principal, Bloom Consulting, LLC

Keynote Speaker:

  • Mohini Venkatesh – Chief of Staff, National Council for Mental Wellbeing

    We’re grateful for your time and contribution to advancing collaborative care for youth and families across Montana.

    Learn More: Meet our Yellowstone Conference panelists and keynote speaker, Mohini Venkatesh.

    Thanking Our Sponsors

    Special thanks to our conference sponsors, Grand Canyon University and Love INC–Yellowstone County, for helping make this event possible and for their commitment to strengthening Montana’s systems of care.

    Moving Forward

    The Yellowstone Conference reaffirmed a collective belief: progress happens when people work together. Across every discussion, one message stood out — collaboration builds the foundation for lasting impact.

    Together, we’re creating opportunities, strengthening relationships, and preparing youth for life.

    Stay Connected

    Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch and YBGR.