Our Approach
During our formation from 2018-2021, the Nacogdoches County Collaborative used the Appreciative Inquiry Process to engage residents in conversations about wellness and well-being. This approach views a community’s residents as the experts of its own strengths and needs. Conversation cafes were held all over the county to gather input from the community. A special effort was made to involve historically excluded groups so that everyone had a voice in the process.
An Appreciative Inquiry Team was formed consisting of residents who wanted to be part of the decision-making and planning process. This group created the name “Better Together,” designed the logo, and directed the activities of the project. At the end of this phase a Common Agenda was formed, a document representing the community’s goals for achieving wellness.
Better Together Nacogdoches continues to use the ideas and values behind the Appreciative Inquiry Process. Community Issues are often complex and interconnected, so it is important to work together to build on our strengths and develop solutions.
bettertogethernac.com 