Believe in Better man shaking another man's hand

May 5, 2026

Believe in Better—Continuing the work that matters

(SACRAMENTO)

Dear Colleagues,

At UC Davis Health, “Believe in Better” is not simply a campaign – it is a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. First launched in 2024 and recently extended, this award-winning effort is grounded in a clear understanding – improving the health for all is possible.

We know that as much as 80% of health outcomes are influenced by factors beyond clinical care – conditions such as access to nutritious food, stable employment, safe housing, and a clean environment.

This reality calls us to think differently, to act more broadly, and to lead with purpose. “Believe in Better” is our commitment to advancing health for everyone, whether they are our patients or not, by addressing the deeper conditions that shape well-being in our communities.

Intersections of health

The pillars of our Believe in Better campaign are interconnected – just like healthcare. Programs like Foodways to Health demonstrate how access to nutritious, culturally relevant food can improve lives. This work extends beyond nutrition – it connects to sustainability, mental health, housing stability and the strength of our local economy.

The campaign also spotlights supporting the local economy and job security. Through workforce development, community partnerships, and thoughtful investment, part of our Anchor Institution Mission, we are helping to build economic stability that directly contributes to better health outcomes and economic opportunity.

Healthcare must meet people where they are, so we believe in better by delivering culturally competent, socially inclusive care. This means recognizing the diverse backgrounds, languages, and experiences of our patients, and ensuring every individual feels seen, respected, understood, and like they belong.

We believe in prioritizing mental health care and support. Mental health is inseparable from overall health. This is why we integrate behavioral health into broader care models while also addressing related challenges such as housing stability and social support systems.

Real programs, people, progress

Our current campaign highlights real programs, with real progress, showing what is possible when we act with intention. We’ll spread this message far and wide in the months ahead. You may have noticed a Believe in Better table and materials at TGFS on April 28-29. You will see the campaign rolling out with a few familiar faces on art for digital platforms, and banners for our campus parking garages, videos, billboards, and more.

Better health for all will not happen overnight. It requires sustained effort, strong partnerships, and a shared sense of responsibility. At UC Davis Health, we are guided by a simple belief: when committed people come together to address the root causes of health, meaningful change is always possible.

That is why we believe in better – and why we will continue working, every day, to make it real for our patients, communities and teams.