The annual season of giving reveals the transformational powers of empathy and solidarity. In the spirit of Giving Tuesday (#GivingTuesday), Â鶹ӰÒô has launched a campaign to help raise donations for the student-led Interprofessional Community Clinic (ICC) and (CCC), which bridge gaps in care for vulnerable populations across Lake County. Services include primary care, vaccinations, podiatry, physical therapy, medication reconciliation, point-of-care testing for infectious disease, behavioral health counseling and health coaching.

CCC includes a 40-foot mobile health vehicle and fleet of electric SUVs that allow program staff to take health services directly to members of our community who may not be able to access them otherwise. It is, literally, a life-saving endeavor.

"Working with the Community Care Coach helped me empathize with people better and in doing so, provide an important service that will make my community a better place. Patients have a better sense of community that they never had before after visiting and speaking to us," said Francisco Navarro, mobile clinic driver and community engagement liaison.

Â鶹ӰÒô students are actively learning from the community, with the community and for the community.

“Every interaction teaches me to tailor education and care plans to meet the unique medical, social and cultural needs of each individual,” said Delany Griffiths, CMS ’27, president of the Interprofessional Community Initiative, which leads and facilitates the operations of the clinic. “This aligns with my belief that the best care comes from not just treating a patient’s condition but understanding their broader circumstances, as well.”

We are grateful for an anonymous match gift of $20,000, through which donations of up to $5,000 will be matched until the $20,000 match goal is met. This campaign is currently underway and will continue through Monday, December 16, 2024. Support this vitally important work with a gift, and help transform the future of health care in our community.