The development of this proposal was conducted in conjunction with a community panel. A community panel that did not include representatives from DHS made the final decision about contractor selection.

Efforts were taken to ensure this training program resonated with the mental health community and supported new more systemic growth in this area. To do this the contractor conducted an environmental scan in Minnesota. This consisted of seeking and reviewing nominations of training and resources available in the state. It also consisted of organizing and reviewing information regarding the state of mental health services in Minnesota such as the (2017) Minnesota Governor’s Task Force on Mental Health. It consisted of understanding and connecting to local advocacy efforts. From this preliminary scan a proposed set of in-person and online training topics and formats were suggested.

A series of statewide co-creation groups were conducted as part of this project. Outreach started at two culturally specific mental health conferences. These initial meetings led to a more refined and structured process of statewide meetings. People from all backgrounds were welcomed. Professionals, people receiving services, family members, community members, and people from underserved groups attended. Those who were not reimbursed in other ways were offered a stipend for their time. Locations were selected for accessibility. Food was offered. Conversations were structured so that all could participate equally and with safety. The conversations with groups helped bring up issues, concerns, things they felt were important to include. Summary information from these groups were posted on the project website to keep people informed of the themes and outcomes.

Once co-creation groups ended, a process of prioritizing and refining materials began. Community reviewers were sought to review drafts of these materials and provide guidance. Community Reviewers who did not have other forms of compensation were offered a stipend. Reviewers came from lead agencies, mental health clinics, and/or were people who received services or family members. People and practitioners from underserved communities were invited and participated in this process.

In addition to including community members in the development of the online curriculum, they were also included in delivering and developing the in-person training. People came from lead agencies, mental health clinics, and/or were people who received services or family members. People and practitioners from underserved communities were invited and participated in this process as well.