Every August, the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) sponsors National Health Center Week (NHCW) to celebrate and increase awareness of America’s 1,400 Community Health Centers (CHCs). National Health Center Week is an opportunity to highlight the commitment and passion of Community Health Center staff, board members, and supporters who make it possible to provide quality, comprehensive healthcare services to more than 31.5 million patients across nearly 15,000 communities annually.
Please join us in celebrating 60 years of improving our nation’s health! Check out our Facebook page if you would like to join in on the conversation and get updates each day: Facebook: www.facebook.com/Shenandoahcommunityhealth
60 Years of CHCs
For 60 years, Community Health Centers have been there for people— providing care you can count on, no matter your income or insurance. What started in 1965 as a small program to bring healthcare to areas with limited access has grown into a powerful network that now serves more than 32.5 million people at over 16,000 locations across the country. During #NHCW25, we’re celebrating this incredible journey and the difference CHCs continue to make for Americans every day.
Staff Appreciation
Community Health Centers couldn’t do this work without the talented and dedicated people who make it all happen. To the more than 310,000 clinical and non-clinical staff across the country — thank you. Whether you’re providing care, managing schedules, keeping buildings running, or supporting patients in a hundred other ways, you are the heart of the health center mission.
Patient Appreciation
At Community Health Centers, patients aren’t just receiving care, they’re helping lead it. Every CHC board is made up of at least 51% patients, meaning major decisions about services, priorities, and programs are made by the people who rely on them most. This unique model keeps health centers grounded in the real needs of their communities — and it works. On Patient Appreciation Day, we celebrate the voices, experiences, and leadership of the patients who power our mission.
Thank you for trusting us to serve your health care needs. We understand that you have many choices but have decided to allow us this privilege. ~ Todd Lockcuff, SCH CFO
Showing appreciation to patients is more than a simple gesture—it’s an acknowledgment of trust, resilience, and partnership in the journey toward better health. Each of you brings a unique story and courage, inspiring us to provide compassionate and attentive care. We are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us with your health and well-being. Your courage throughout every challenge, and your willingness to share your journey with us, inspires us every day. Thank you for allowing us to stand by your side, to witness your strength, and to be a part of your story. ~ Mike Hassing, SCH CEO
It is certainly not lost on me when a member of our community selects us for their health care needs. That is a trust we take very seriously, and we try and do everything in our power to ensure we live up to their expectations. We know they have choices, and we appreciate them choosing us. ~ David Stuller, SCH COO/CIO
Health Condition Focus
Community Health Centers are on the front lines of preventing and managing chronic disease. In 2023 alone:
That’s prevention in action. That’s the value of Community Health Centers
PDF Files:
Populations Focus
From rural towns to urban neighborhoods, Community Health Centers are there, serving people of every race, ethnicity, and background. This includes veterans, people without housing, older adults, and expecting parents. In 2023 alone, health centers provided prenatal care to more than 605,000 patients. Over two-thirds were seen in the first trimester, a critical window for healthy outcomes.
50 Years of Special Populations article - PDF
Partner Appreciation
Community Health Centers don’t do this work alone. We rely on partnerships with hospitals, schools, public health departments, food banks, housing organizations, and more to keep our communities healthy. Thank you for being a vital part of our mission to deliver care, expand access, and improve lives!!
Gratitude and Future Vision
From outgoing CEO: GRATITUDE
The National Community Health Center Program stands as a beacon of compassion, accessibility, and innovation within the American healthcare system. Established in the 1960s to address glaring health disparities, it has grown into a nationwide network that delivers quality care to millions, regardless of their ability to pay or where they live. By reaching underserved populations—such as migrant workers, those experiencing homelessness, and residents of rural areas—and tailoring services to community needs, the centers have become sanctuaries of hope, healing, and respect. Their holistic approach, which extends beyond medical services to include dental, mental health, and preventive care, represents a model of comprehensive, patient-centered support.
This program’s profound impact is rooted in the dedication of healthcare professionals and the deep engagement with local communities. Community health centers foster trust, break down barriers to care, and empower individuals through education and outreach. Their efforts not only improve health outcomes but also invigorate local economies and strengthen the fabric of society. As we look to the future, our gratitude extends to all those who champion, support, and sustain the National Community Health Center Program, whose ongoing mission lights the way toward healthier communities.
From incoming CEO: FUTURE VISION
SCH is poised for a strong future, guided by a dedicated consumer-majority board. The board's realistic strategic goals prioritize patient-centric solutions, emphasizing top-tier staff, high-quality care, patient satisfaction, and financial stability.
As the incoming leader, I'm fortunate to collaborate with talented colleagues committed to executing this vision. My personal experience with limited access to healthcare deeply resonates with SCH's mission. While SCH currently serves approximately 28,000 patients annually, a significant need remains within the community. Our forward vision is to focus on enhancing services for existing patients while expanding outreach to those currently underserved.
Despite all of the challenges the health care industry is currently facing, I am confident that our patient-first approach will establish SCH as the community's healthcare provider of choice. It is a true honor to have been given the opportunity to serve as the CEO of SCH
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