OXFORD — Can we build a better, healthier future for ourselves by building stronger social connections to each other? Put another way, can “community = cure” for difficult issues impacting our health? The Oxford County Wellness Collaborative thinks so, and continues to lead work aimed at this kind of positive change for the county.
Over the next several months the OCWC will continue a process of bringing together community members to deepen ties to one another and create a common vision for creating health in Oxford County. This work began in the summer of 2014 and will lead to a county-wide gathering this spring to identify one or two priority issues bearing on health in Oxford County.
This process is based on envisioning the possibilities for a vibrant healthy county, and building connections between people that will allow the community to work together effectively to make Oxford County a better place. The OCWC is gathering people together at “Healthy Community Gatherings” to share thoughts, ideas and passion surrounding the belief that as a community, we can take charge of creating a healthy life for all. As participants are empowered, support for this positive change increases, which in turn builds the foundation for true community action.
The gatherings actively work to incorporate the “voice” of everyone, even those who feel their voice cannot be heard, due to the barriers of poverty, status, etc. This work is based on the belief that there is leadership and value in each member of our community, and a commitment to find a way to tap into that potential.
A six-week series of Healthy Community Gatherings began in both Norway and Rumford on Feb. 3. The weekly gatherings will take place in Norway at the Town Office from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and in Rumford at the Praise Assembly of God, 89 Congress St., from 5 to 6:30 p.m. These events are open to all.
Healthy Community Gatherings are being organized in Fryeburg and Bethel, too. If you are interested in participating in one of these or organizing another in your area, call Brendan Schauffler, network facilitator for the Oxford County Wellness Collaborative, at 739-6222.
Previous participants say they feel connected to each other and energized by the conversations and community building. After attending the first of several gatherings, a longtime community activist in Rumford said, “I don’t feel so alone” in regards to his dedication to making a positive difference in his community.
On March 19 there will be a county-wide gathering (location to be determined) to determine a focus for creating a healthier Oxford County that we can all stand behind.
The Wellness Collaborative is currently providing “host” trainings for people who would like to facilitate gatherings around Oxford County.
Barbara Rajaniemi, who attended a fall 2014 training in Rumford, shared that, “After the host training I felt empowered, I felt my voice mattered and I found myself being more aware of others and their needs and helping others feel that their voice matters too.”
The training is free and does not require a commitment to participate in Healthy Community Gatherings work. However, trained hosts who go on to support Healthy Community Gatherings receive a stipend for their work.
Food will be provided at the gatherings, as well as the trainings, and financial help is available to cover transportation and childcare expenses. For more information about the Healthy Community Gatherings or host trainings, call Brendan at 207-739-6222 or email brendan@healthyoxfordhills.org.
The Oxford County Wellness Collaborative is a growing group of caring individuals and organizations who want to increase the health of Oxford County, making it the most desirable place to live, work, play and raise a family.
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