A Brief History of the Upper Valley Free Clinic
The Upper Valley Free Clinic (UVFC) began from the desire of Faith Lutheran Church members to meet the health needs of members of our community. With the guidance of Karen Strom and Dr. Karl Kranz, as well as the critical support of Cascade Medical Center, the Leavenworth Free Clinic began in 2000. A core group of volunteers operate the Free Clinic every Monday night from 6:30pm-8pm except holidays at Cascade Medical Center Clinic. Providers from Cascade Medical Center and Wenatchee Valley Medical Center, as well as visiting providers, are dedicated to treating emergent conditions before they become a major problem.
Volunteer nurses, often two an evening, prepare patients for seeing the provider by weighing, checking blood pressure and taking important information. Sometimes, a nurse is able to provide assistance without a patient ever needing to see a doctor. Patients are greeted by a volunteer receptionist who handles the appropriate paperwork. A volunteer Social Service person is also available to guide patients towards the appropriate continuous care options available. An interpreter is always available on Clinic nights.
In 2006, UVFC joined the Washington Free Clinic Association (WFCA). Volunteer Theresa D-Litzenberger served on the board from 2007-2008, and Lori Brown, volunteer nurse, is currently serving a three year term on the board and is the Secretary. WFCA provides continuing education, support, and resources for members and information about clinics throughout the state for people with health concerns . More information about Free Clinics in the state can be found at wafreeclinics.org.
In 2009, UVFC joined Upper Valley MEND ( Meeting Each Need with Dignity ), Leavenworth's nonprofit social service organization that serves the community through the Community Cupboard, SHARE Affordable Housing, Cornerstone Community Adult Family Home and Jubilee Global Gifts. MEND provides administrative support and nonprofit status so the Clinic can apply for funding and grants.
Many generous people donate to the Free Clinic. Leavenworth Rotary Club donates monthly, allowing the Clinic to pay for x-ray and lab for patients. United Methodist Women, Thrivant Financial for Lutherans, and personal donations from grateful patients help pay for medical and office supplies. These donations are a testament to their commitment to the health of our community. As one donor said: "The next person who comes to the Clinic might be me if my economic conditions change in an unforeseen way. I care to look out for the members of my community who are in a bad way at the moment."
Mark Judy, administrator of Cascade Medical Center, recently noted: “We don’t express our appreciation to MEND often enough for the services you provide and sponsor to meet the needs of those less vulnerable in our community. The challenge before us, will only escalate with these dire changes in state funding.”
Some people visiting this site may not need immediate care now, but may in the future, or have a chronic condition requiring expensive prescriptions and doctor visits. At the Clinic, volunteers devote time to helping people find the solution best for them, fill out necessary forms, and find the help they need. Please visit the Clinic even if you don't have an emergent need.
