BELLEFONTE — As the Center’s volunteers in medicine continue to see a need for services, expansion and growth are underway.
On Tuesday, the Center County Board of Commissioners approved a $3 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Project (RACP), with CISG matching funds amounting to $3,141,925 dollars, for a total project cost of $6,141,925.
Cheryl White, Executive Director of CVIM, spoke at length during the meeting about the organization’s success – and subsequent growth.
“The building we purchased is on Sandy Drive…the building is currently under construction. This will allow us to grow from our current space of 6,700 square feet to nearly double that once the addition and renovation is complete,” White explained. “I really appreciate this opportunity from the state and the county to help us get this money.”
CVIM is a true Center County success story. The organization provides health care to uninsured people. According to White, the need for a larger facility is driven by the continued increase in demand for their services.
In addition to medical services, CVIM also offers dental care.
“Our dental program will grow from four operatories to six. We now have a full time dentist… that waiting list of 400 is reduced even today as we speak,” said White.
According to White, a dentist is one of the few paid positions.
“We pay our dentist because dentists are hard to find,” said White.
CVIM is run by volunteers and funded by grants and donations. Its fundraising campaign plays a vital role in its success.
“We still need money to operate, beyond what we need for the building. As a true free clinic, we have no regular source of income. We do not charge for the services we provide. We are truly blessed by the community that supports us,” said White.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, CVIM was one of the main suppliers of vaccines and boosters. Many of these clinics have taken place on the Penn State campus, illustrating the collaboration between CVIM and the community it serves.
White said the need for CIHR in the community is felt every day.
“I don’t think there will be a day – at least in our lifetime – when there will not be a need for health care for the working poor who cannot afford insurance,” said White.
CVIM has nearly 200 volunteers — from doctors to office staff, she said.
“We always have volunteer opportunities available,” said White.
White said the new facility is expected to be completed in 2023.
“I hope the end of spring” said White. “Crossed fingers.”
For more information about CVIM, visit their website at www.cvim.net.
