The Science Behind Our Work

Our Approach:
A One Health Model for Community Wellness

At BAOHC, through Wellness One, we harness the power of the human-animal bond and technology to support those in need.

Human Health
Mental health, substance use recovery & wrap-around care
Animal Health
Healing through the human-animal bond & AAT programs
Environment
Sustainable practices & ecological stewardship
Equity
Removing every barrier between care and community
The Model

The One Health Framework

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.

8 Dimensions of Wellness

Our programs address all 8 dimensions of wellness simultaneously - because true healing is holistic.

😊 Emotional
🌿 Ecological
💰 Financial
🧠 Intellectual
🏢 Occupational
🏃 Physical
👥 Social
🙏 Spiritual
How It Works

From Outreach to Empowerment

Community-Based Outreach

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.

Animal-Assisted Therapy Sessions

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.

Peer Navigator Integration

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.

Wrap-Around Services Coordination

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.

Workforce Development & Reintegration

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.

Support Our Approach

Your support funds the Micro Clinics, peer navigators, and AAT programs that make this model possible.

Donate Today Become a Partner Volunteer