If a county decides to apply for and receive County Community Safety Fund dollars, the next step is ensuring the funding translates into meaningful outcomes.

The fund is designed to support community-based initiatives that address factors contributing to justice involvement and public safety challenges. While each county determines its priorities, allowable uses generally include:

Behavioral Health Access
Counties may expand outpatient treatment services, mobile crisis response, peer support, or partnerships with local providers to address gaps in mental health and substance use services.

Diversion Programs
Pretrial diversion, treatment courts, or structured alternatives to incarceration can be strengthened or expanded, depending on community needs.

Reentry Coordination
Counties may support case management, workforce partnerships, housing navigation, or other stabilization efforts for individuals returning to the community.

Data and Systems Coordination
Some counties invest in improved data tracking, interagency coordination, and program evaluation to better align services and measure impact.

For rural counties in particular, these funds may provide resources to pilot new service models that were previously financially out of reach.

However, implementation requires careful planning. Counties must manage compliance, monitor outcomes, coordinate partners, and ensure funds are used in alignment with state guidance.

Sustainable impact depends on:

• Clear governance structures
• Defined performance metrics
• Ongoing stakeholder engagement
• Financial oversight and reporting systems
• A plan for continuation beyond the initial award period

At SOAR Partners, we support counties beyond the application phase. Our team works alongside local leadership to design operational plans, establish metrics dashboards, structure partnerships, and implement performance management systems.

The County Community Safety Fund represents one tool available to Oklahoma counties. Thoughtful evaluation and strategic planning determine whether and how that tool is deployed.

If your county is assessing this opportunity, we’re available to provide a strategic consultation to help you evaluate fit, feasibility, and next steps.