Elevating Community Voices
How we make sure our decisions are informed by those closest to the work
Better Health Together was founded on the principle that when we step back and let the local community lead, we find the best and most sustainable solutions to some of our most complex problems. From our start over 10 years ago, we have centered around community feedback mechanisms and community engagement so our work is inclusive from the beginning, not as an afterthought. We recognize the importance of community and Tribal-led solutions in transforming our health system.
Meet our Collaboratives!
When BHT was first established, it was important to us to connect with community from the start, and not as a feedback mechanism. Collaboratives allow us the chance to engage, to listen, and to bring the voices that aren’t being heard through traditional methods to the table. We are proud to work closely with the following collaboratives on a regular basis who inform our strategy:
Community Voices Council (CVC)
The CVC is an up to to 30-member council of community members who have experienced barriers to care as a result of their identity, income, race, or ability . They make project recommendations to the Board and evaluate Better Health Togethers accountability to community members
Tribal Partners Collaborative (TPC)
TPC serves as a platform for tribes and nonprofit Native by and for partners to engage in dialogue, share resources, and develop strategies to address key issues around health and wellness.
CHW Network of Eastern WA
The Eastern WA CHW Network was formed in 2016 and has since been an active, formal outlet for engaging CHWs throughout the region. The mission of the CHW network is to improve the health of all people in Eastern Washington by advocating for, connecting, educating, and empowering community connectors to reduce barriers and ensure equitable access to resources.
The network includes CHWs, allies, and partners who are interested in improving the CHW workforce in our region. Network members come from a variety of organizations in the areas of education, healthcare, community-based, local health jurisdiction, and
Community Voice in Leadership
When Better Health Together was first established, we knew that elevating community voice and supporting folks who experienced the highest level of health disparities had to extend to how we built our board of directors.
Our Board members are true change agents who support visionary actions. They represent the multifaceted nature of our region’s health care—rural and urban, public and private, health plans and health systems and social determinants of health organizations. The Board prioritizes input from Committees and Collaboratives to drive our vision to be the healthiest region in the state. Above all, they are champions for healthy people and thriving communities.
