Open Source Wellness

Open Source Wellness is a nonprofit organization based in Oakland, CA, with an emphasis on community health through its unique approach, "Community as Medicine." It operates as a "Behavioral Pharmacy," focusing on four core practices: MOVE (physical activity), NOURISH (healthy meals), CONNECT (social support), and BE (stress reduction)[1][3]. This model integrates these practices into clinical, community, housing, and corporate contexts to promote whole-person wellbeing[1].

Mission and Vision

The organization's mission is to create a world where everyone experiences abundant health, wellbeing, and human connection, particularly in historically excluded and marginalized communities[2]. Their vision aligns with addressing the stark realities of health disparities and barriers faced by vulnerable communities[2].

Programs

Open Source Wellness offers health coaching programs that are transdiagnostic, equity-centered, trauma-informed, and experiential. These programs focus on promoting physical activity, healthy nutrition, social connection, and stress reduction[2]. They partner with healthcare providers, community organizations, and employers to deliver these services, which include clinic-based Group Medical Visits and community-based group coaching[4][5].

Funding and Partnerships

The organization is funded through a mix of earned and philanthropic revenue. Earned revenue primarily comes from partnerships with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and other clinical partners, as well as tuition from their health coach training programs[2]. They also receive reimbursement from California's Medicaid program for their health coaching services as part of a pilot initiative[2]. Philanthropic support aids in expanding their reach and sustainability[4].

Impact

Open Source Wellness serves approximately 1,500 patients annually through their direct service programs, with plans to expand further[2]. Their model has been recognized for improving health equity by addressing underlying social determinants of health in underserved communities[2]. They also offer workshops and trainings that support the development of trauma-informed health and wellness coaches[5].

[1] https://www.scattergoodfoundation.org/projects/open-source-wellness/ [2] https://www.socialprescribingusa.com/blog/opensourcewellness [3] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/7a43f767409948a59866ce8a3721a701-open-source-wellness-oakland [4] https://www.opensourcewellness.org/partners [5] https://www.opensourcewellness.org