Brian Douglas, with the Graham County Health Department, asked the Board of Supervisors on Nov. 17 to approve the county’s application for the fiscal 2025–26 "Project Together" grant with the Southeastern Arizona Health Education Center. "We're requesting approval of the fiscal year 25, 26 Project Together grant," Douglas said, adding the award could provide up to $30,000 for mental and behavioral‑health work in rural Arizona.

The program Douglas described would fund outreach and education in local schools, with staff members Emily Riddle and Rosa Contreras working alongside Jennifer Labram to teach students about mental and behavioral health. Douglas described the award as currently structured on a year‑by‑year basis; board members asked about longer‑term support and oversight.

Vice Chairman David called the proposal "a much needed program to help with our situation with the mental‑health tragedy we have here in the county," stressing early intervention in schools. Board members also asked whether the University of Arizona remained involved; Douglas clarified that the grant at issue is overseen by the Southeastern Arizona Health Education Center (transcript uses both "CEHEC" and "CHEC" in different lines).

Supervisor Howard moved to approve the grant; Vice Chairman David seconded the motion and the board approved it by voice vote. The award as presented covers a single year; Douglas said whether the project will be funded in subsequent years "I have no idea," reflecting uncertainty about renewals and longer‑term state or federal support.

What happens next: staff will finalize acceptance paperwork with the health education center and begin contracting for the school‑based services described to the board. The funding source, oversight arrangements and any multi‑year commitments will depend on future grant awards and administrative decisions.