In September 2026, the Great Lakes Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Regional Center (ROTA-RC), led by the University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension, received a three-year renewal of funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
The renewed award will support the Center’s continued work to strengthen rural behavioral health services across six states in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Region 5: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
About the Great Lakes ROTA Regional Center
The Great Lakes ROTA-RC works collaboratively with state Extension partners and rural communities to strengthen local capacity to prevent and address opioid use disorder, other substance use disorders, and mental health challenges.
Through training, technical assistance, and educational resources, the Center helps rural communities apply evidence-based and emerging practices that support prevention, treatment, and recovery. Our work emphasizes a whole-community approach that responds to the unique needs and strengths of rural populations.
Working through Extension programs across the six-state region, we offer virtual and on-demand educational opportunities on topics such as mental health and substance use in the workplace, substance use prevention, and other emerging behavioral health priorities.
Check back soon for updates on upcoming trainings, events, and resources, and watch for our new monthly Great Lakes ROTA-RC newsletter featuring research highlights, practical tools, and opportunities to connect with others working to strengthen behavioral health in rural communities.
