A powerful start of our training "Community Health Buddy"

On October 15 and 16, 2024, the first prototype of the training to become a "Community Health Buddy" took place. This ten-hour training, made possible by a four-year grant from mkk-meine krankenkasse, Salus BKK, and Pronova BKK, was developed by betterplace lab and is aimed at community managers and employees from social co-working spaces and purpose-driven organizations. The goal is to empower these individuals to initiate and support health-promoting measures within their communities.

With four facilitators and 12 participants from civil society organizations, such as associations and social enterprises, this workshop marked the beginning of a promising movement toward healthier work environments.

Two Days Full of New Insights and Lived Community

The first day focused on self-contact, self-care, and individual resilience. In an often overwhelming world, individuals in civil society roles tend to invest heavily in others—whether to tackle acute crises or advance transformative projects. However, this commitment often comes at the expense of their own needs and can lead to inner exhaustion. This is precisely where the role of the Community Health Buddy comes in: as initiators and points of contact for health-promoting offerings within their organizations, they are responsible for fostering healthy structures and enabling collective support.

A central principle of the training emphasized by Jana is that a regulated nervous system is the foundation for being there for the community in the long term. Body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice often communicate more than words can. To contribute to co-regulation within the team as a Community Health Buddy, it is essential to start with oneself. Therefore, participants learned methods that help them better recognize and attend to their mental, emotional, and physical needs.

Particular attention was paid to the physical level, which was strengthened through check-ins and awareness exercises—an aspect often neglected in our highly cognitive society. Only those who know themselves well and take care of themselves can sustainably support others.

Another focus was on reflecting on one’s own boundaries. Patrizia introduced the Circle of Influence, which helped participants discuss what tasks they can realistically take on as Community Health Buddies and where clear boundaries are necessary. The first day concluded with an inspiring contribution from the BKK, providing practical information on preventive offerings and access for their communities.

Strengthening Community Through Micro-Solidarity and Creative Approaches

The second day was dedicated to the practical application of the resilience strategies learned in a community context. The focus was on how participants, as Community Health Buddies, can promote a healthy and supportive relationship culture within their teams. The model of micro-solidarity served as a guiding principle. It describes the dynamics of groups at five levels—from the self to dyads, small groups, and larger gatherings understood as a community.

Nicki illustrated this through the metaphor of a gardener lovingly tending to their plants—symbolic of nurturing relationships through mindful, loving actions. A culture of regeneration requires time to grow and is based on small, consistent gestures. The goal is the holistic regeneration of the system. A central question that should guide the Community Health Buddies is: “How do I build a community where it is highly likely that people help each other?” Nicki encouraged participants to see themselves as researchers leading with vulnerability—drawing inspiration from Brené Brown's approach of “leading with vulnerability.”

Clemens added a playful component to the workshop. He encouraged participants to experiment and not fear mistakes. His session focused on collective activation and creative dreaming to make the potentials of the community visible. Through interactive exercises and playful group activities, participants learned how to create spaces where people can support and activate each other.

The Future of Community Health Buddies

The role of Community Health Buddies was brought to life over these two days: they serve as bridge builders who bring mindfulness, mutual support, and healthier interactions to their communities. The aim was to equip participants with ideas and tools to strengthen and enrich their own communities.

Participants now face the task of implementing what they have learned in their organizations and taking initial steps to create health-promoting work environments. Whether through regular resilience check-ins or new formats for mutual support—the possibilities are diverse. The Community Health Buddies are ready to actively shape this new culture.

A Prototype with Great Potential

With the introduction of the "Community Health Buddy," we have taken an important step toward a healthier work culture—under the motto “Wellbeing inspires Welldoing.” The goal is to establish a culture of self-care and communal growth, where health and well-being are at the center.

This prototype was a significant first step. We have gained valuable insights to tailor the training even more precisely to the needs of civil society actors. While ten hours may not be enough to cover all aspects of health promotion, we are convinced that the “Community Health Buddy” is a powerful response to the growing challenges of the workplace. By strengthening individual and collective resilience, we not only create greater well-being but also lay the foundation for long-term, positive societal change.

The first run was a prototype—but it will not be the last. Express your interest and become part of a growing community that places health and well-being at the forefront. Together, we can achieve great things: Wellbeing inspires Welldoing!

If you have any questions about the training, you can contact Kerstin at kerstin.walter@betterplace-lab.org.

For more information about the betterplace well:being program, which is supported by the health insurance providers mkk, Pronova BKK, and Salus BKK, have a look here.