Investing in networks and social infrastructure in historically marginalized communities to foster health and wellness.
Central Texans are stronger when they are connected—to each other, to vital resources, and to opportunities to shape and improve their communities. Yet for many, especially in historically marginalized areas, barriers such as limited access to care, economic instability, and discrimination make it harder to stay connected and feel supported. We believe that strong community networks and spaces where people feel they belong are essential to health and well-being. When communities are equipped with the tools, trust, and support to come together, they are best positioned to lead, create solutions that reflect their lived experiences, and build a healthier, more equitable future for all.
Driving Impact
By 2030, St. David’s Foundation seeks to increase the number and strength of locally rooted networks in communities with the greatest health needs in Central Texas. We aim to foster communities that are organized, coordinated, and supported to take collective action and drive change. Ultimately, we envision communities across Central Texas that are not only empowered to shape their own health priorities but also equipped to influence policies and systems that support healthier communities.
Approach
St. David’s Foundation’s approach centers on developing capacity and catalyzing communities to strengthen civic health. We will invest in the infrastructure and community-rooted leadership that support social connection, movement building, and collective action in historically marginalized communities.
We will invest in:
- Helping communities build and expand assets that foster belonging, trust, and collaboration such as gathering spaces, storytelling, and local media
- Community-led efforts to develop and grow local leadership and networks that enable residents to organize, coordinate, and influence decisions that impact their health and well-being
