Community Volunteers in Medicine, Inc.

Overview

Community Volunteers in Medicine, Inc. (CVIM) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free primary medical, dental, orthodontic, and behavioral healthcare services to uninsured adults and children living in poverty. Founded in 1998, CVIM is headquartered in Pennsylvania and operates primarily in Chester County.

History

The model for charitable clinics like CVIM was pioneered by Dr. Jack McConnell in Hilton Head, South Carolina, in 1993. CVIM was established with support from Paoli Hospital Foundation and its Auxiliary, who provided initial funding for the project. Betty Moran, Buck Bell, and Gordon Hattersley spearheaded the initiative, with Helen Heidelbough serving as the first executive director. Initially operating from a small storefront in Frazer, CVIM began offering medical care and medications, with dental services added shortly after its inception. Over the years, CVIM has grown significantly, relocating to a renovated warehouse in West Chester in 2001 to expand its services.

Services

CVIM offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including:

• Primary Medical Care: Provided by volunteer licensed clinicians such as physicians and nurses.
• Dental and Orthodontic Care: Aimed at reducing dental pain and oral disease, particularly among children.
• Behavioral Health Services: Includes therapy sessions and support groups.
• Pharmaceutical Assistance: Dispensing free prescription medications.
• Nutritional Counseling: Promoting health and nutrition education.
• Women's Healthcare Services: Specialized care for women.

In addition to direct medical services, CVIM facilitates over 200 student clinical rotations annually, engaging future healthcare professionals in community service.

Mission and Impact

CVIM's mission is to restore the health of uninsured adults, enabling them to become productive community members, and to ensure children are free from dental pain, fostering healthy self-esteem and academic success. By providing these essential services, CVIM helps reduce the reliance on costly emergency room visits and hospital admissions.

In 2023, CVIM celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking significant milestones in service delivery. The organization has earned a 4/4 Star rating from Charity Navigator, reflecting its commitment to transparency and efficiency in financial management.

Funding and Grants

CVIM has received significant support from grants and donations. For example, in 2017, it received a $100,000 grant from Impact100Philly to expand its Mobile Dental Outreach program and Behavioral Health Services, as well as to fund a bilingual Patient Education Navigator. This funding supports CVIM's efforts to extend its reach and enhance patient care through expanded services and better navigation of the healthcare system.

Values

CVIM operates under guiding principles that emphasize compassion, inclusivity, and healing. The organization seeks to serve as a beacon of hope for those who are often overlooked, providing not only medical care but also a supportive environment that fosters community and well-being.