GET TO KNOW
Who We Are
We are the Rural Whole Health Coalition (RWHC), dedicated to increasing health and wellness for families in rural Central Texas communities of Bastrop, Lee, Caldwell and Fayette.
We address community needs by increasing access to mental health, primary health and financial health services.
Our Story
The Rural Whole Health Coalition (RWHC), formerly the Smithville Whole Health Partnership, started in 2014. Its mission is to unite health, social justice, nutrition, education and policy experts with funders and community partners. Together, they work to create lasting, positive change in Smithville and nearby rural areas.
Our new name, Rural Whole Health Coalition, reflects the expansion of our service area to include more communities in rural Central Texas, now encompassing Bastrop, Caldwell, Fayette and Lee counties.
What We Do
We bring together organizations and communities to leverage resources, partnerships, and funding for increased community wellness and access to care, and lifelong learning programs and services.
We partner with cross-sector organizations to promote community health via education,
screening, and policy changes
We foster communication between organizations
and the community to enhance awareness
We share information about the health progress
of our community
We help connect services with the community
What We Believe
Our Guiding Principles
The essence of global health equity is the idea that something so precious
as health might be viewed as a right.
— Dr. Paul Farmer
What We Believe
Our Guiding Principles
Serve the Whole Community through a Systems-Oriented Approach.
We support not only the individuals whose mental and physical health, well-being and financial stability are at risk but also their families and communities. To create a healthier community, we strive to change the overall system, including policies, practices, care culture and norms.
Take an Asset-Based Approach.
We view all individuals and families as assets to build upon and do not shame people for poor health or their current life circumstances.
It's Everyone's Responsibility.
Wellness and health are not just individual concerns but a shared responsibility of the entire community, including the private sector, governments, schools, families, and individuals at risk.
Think Holistically About Health.
Supporting health and wellness means promoting mind, body, financial, and spiritual wellness.
Empower People and Families.
We commit to empowering individuals and families with the knowledge, cost-effective care, and tools they need to take their health into their own hands.
What We Believe
Our Guiding Principles
Global Impact Areas
RWHC brings together people from diverse backgrounds to address complex health challenges in rural Central Texas through collaboration and collective impact. By building cross-sector partnerships, sharing resources, and focusing on Primary, Mental, and Financial Health, RWHC works to improve community wellness.
Our Team
Rural Whole Health Coalition's structure comprises a steering committee, several highly collaborative workgroups, and a support staff that acts as a neutral convener and supports the coalition's work.
Executive Board
Jose Rivera
RWHC Co-Chair &
Community Engagement Coordinator
City of Smithville
Caroline Noya
RWHC Co-Chair &
Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce, Chair
Jill Strube
Director of Economic Development
City of Smithville
Judy Bergeron
Head Librarian
City of Smithville
Sharlene Scheler
Methodist Health Ministries
Wesley Nurse
Norma Mercado
Executive Director
Bastrop County Cares
Janice Bruno
Executive Director
Career Tracks