Founded in 2022 as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization based in Oakland, California, BAOHC operates as a collaborative alliance dedicated to improving health, wellness, and access to care in urban neighborhoods.
Bay Area One Health Coalition (BAOHC) was founded in 2022 with a mission to connect service providers and have a lasting effect on health outcomes in and around Oakland. Our approach integrates the CDC’s One Health model, which emphasizes the interconnection of human, animal, and environmental health.
We aim to promote wellness and reduce barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable populations, particularly those affected by substance use disorders, mental health issues, and systemic inequality through addressing the 8 dimensions of wellness.
Our inaugural sponsor Project Pet helped to launch the Wellness One academy which focuses on mental health and wellness outreach, connections to services, and restorative workforce development.
“A conscious, deliberate process that requires a person to become aware of and make choices for a more satisfying lifestyle.” — Dr. Peggy Swarbrick, 2012
Established as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization in Oakland, CA, with support from inaugural sponsor Project Pet.
Launched the Wellness One academy, focusing on mental health and wellness outreach, connections to services, and restorative workforce development.
Pioneered the “Release a Leash” dog training program as part of Animal-Assisted Therapy, serving unhoused communities in Alameda County.
Launched mobile Micro-Clinics providing tangible mental health services, substance use treatment, and harm reduction tools in underserved areas.
Our Board of Directors comprises individuals from diverse backgrounds, each committed to our mission of creating sustainable, equitable solutions for underserved communities. Their leadership and guidance ensure that BAOHC remains focused on its core goals of community wellness and restorative justice.
Our team is made up of compassionate professionals with lived experience who work intensely to support vulnerable individuals. From peer navigators to animal-assisted therapy specialists, we leverage a multidisciplinary approach that includes mental health professionals, social service experts, animal welfare advocates, and more actors in the community health ecosystem.
We regularly update our community with important announcements, news, and public posts related to our projects, partnerships, and community engagement. Stay tuned to our website for the latest developments.
View All BAOHC EventsAt BAOHC, through Wellness One, we harness the power of the human-animal bond and technology to support those in need.
By utilizing Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), we engage vulnerable communities — particularly individuals navigating substance use disorders, mental health issues, housing insecurity, or justice system involvement. We leverage this bond to improve emotional resilience, reduce stigma, and dismantle barriers to health services.
Central to our approach is the training and empowerment of Peer Navigators — community members with lived experience who are equipped to guide others on their wellness journey. These individuals become leaders within their own neighborhoods, helping us pass the reins of care and advocacy back to the community.
In collaboration with local partners, BAOHC delivers culturally relevant, holistic care and economic opportunity through accessible wellness services tailored to the unique challenges of those we serve.
Our programs address all 8 dimensions of wellness simultaneously — because true healing is holistic.
We meet people where they are - at encampments, community centers, and on the streets - building trust before delivering services. Our community health workers conduct culturally competent, trauma-informed outreach.
Through partnerships with animal welfare organizations, we deploy AAT in accessible settings. Participants engage with trained animals as a bridge to emotional resilience and readiness for additional services.
SB803-certified Peer Navigators with lived experience are embedded in every program. They build long-term relationships with participants, acting as both guides and advocates throughout the wellness journey.
We connect individuals to a full spectrum of services - mental health, substance use treatment, housing support, veterinary care, legal aid, and economic opportunity - through our One Health Micro-Clinic model.
For those ready to build stable employment, we provide certified training in animal care, e-commerce, and peer navigation - creating sustainable pathways to economic independence.
Whether you’re looking to volunteer, partner, or donate — there’s a place for you in the coalition.