A-ROUTE-PATHWAYS

About AROUTE-Pathways

AROUTE-Pathways was created to bridge the gap between rural youth and behavioral health career opportunities.

Together, we’re addressing Arkansas’s mental-health workforce shortage by inspiring young people to see themselves as the next generation of counselors, social workers, and peer specialists.

OUR MISSION

Empower Youth. Strengthen Communities.

Our mission is to empower North Arkansas youth to explore behavioral health careers, lead community well-being initiatives, and strengthen the local workforce.

THE CHALLENGE

73 of 75

Arkansas counties are designated Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas. Youth are facing record levels of stress, trauma, and isolation.

Our Approach:

01. Pathway

Structured education-to-career routes into behavioral-health fields.

02. Engagement

Peer-driven youth leadership and wellness programs.

03. Sustainability

Long-term partnerships between schools, colleges, and employers.

A-ROUTE-PATHWAYS

Meet the Team:

Kim Shuler, LCSW

Co-Project Director

Dr. Lindsay Ruhr, LCSW, Ph.D.

Co-Project Director

Jenny Post 

Project Manager

Miste Trent

Outreach Coordinator

Cindy DeWitt

Outreach Coordinator

Brooke Evans

Career Advisor/Student Liaison