On Thursday, June 25, the Free Clinic of Simi Valley honored four pharmacists for completing their "ambulatory care" training at the Free Clinic. In a special recognition ceremony, Mitch Pelter, Pharm.D., presented certificates to Vicky Lin, Pharm.D., Keny Khachadourian, Pharm.D., Lilit Balain, Pharm.D., and Tigran Khachatryan, Pharm.D.

A special tribute was also paid to Robert Deamer, Pharm.D., who received an award recognizing his retirement as a volunteer preceptor after nearly two decades of dedicated service in that role since 2007. The ceremony concluded with the graduates sharing words of encouragement and advice with the four new participants entering the residency program, highlighting the spirit of mentorship and service that defines the clinic's pharmacy program.

Participants in our Lunch & Learn gained knowledge of options to enjoy tax benefits while making a gift to their favorite nonprofits. CPA Mike Fischer, a long-time Simi Valley expert in all things taxes, covered both gifts from IRAs and donor advised funds.

IRA account holders are required to take a required minimum distribution when they hit a certain age. Rather than accepting the funds, an individual can direct them a favorite charity and avoid negative tax consequences, such as triggering increases in Medicare premiums. A donor advised fund is an investment tool that allows individuals to make deposits and then recommend disbursements — or "grants" — to their favorite charities using the fund's money. 

Be sure to join our email mailing list to receive announcements and invitations to future educational events. 

Spirits were high for the second of four Bring-a-Friend Friday events at the Free Clinic on June 12. It was a pleasure taking guests on tours, engaging in a bit of trivia fun, providing access to the leaders of pivotal local organizations— Fred Bauermeister, Executive Director of the Free Clinic of Simi Valley, Austin Purkeypile, President of Adventist Health Simi Valley, Laura Malinowski, Executive Director of Sarah's House, and Danica Selvaggio, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County — and offering a relaxing atmosphere with live music in our transformed space.There are two more Bring-a-Friend Fridays on the books: July 17 and August 21. Register here.

The Annual Fredrick Michael Gibson 5K/10K & Half Marathon Walk/Run for Depression Awareness takes place Sunday, October 11 at Rancho Simi Community Park, located at 1765 Royal Ave in Simi Valley. Cash awards — ranging from $100 to $500 — will be awarded to winners of each distance. Participants can also enjoy a pancake breakfast afterwards courtesy of the "Y's Men" from Simi Valley YMCA. The Vitalant Bloodmobile will be at the event taking donations.  Learn more about the event here.
 
Event Times
7:00am – Half Marathon Starts
8:15 am – 5K/10K Runners Start 
8:20 am – 5K/10K Walkers and Strollers Start 
9:30AM – Kids Fun Run Starts

The vibe was laid back and fun for the first of the Free Clinic's four-event series this summer on May 1st. Bring-a-Friend Friday was created to allow current supporters of the Clinic to introduce a friend to our mission, helping us build greater visibility among individuals who believe in creating pathways to health for area children and families.

Guests heard from Fred Bauermeister, Executive Director of the Free Clinic of Simi Valley, and Allie Mayernik, Executive Director of For The Need Foundation, our featured nonprofit of the event. 

Relaxing music was provided by Crystal Sloan, delicious food was served up by Raphael at Nuñez Taco Bar & Catering, everyone got a chance to tour our clinic, and one group of guests won a round of trivia. One individual was so impressed with our services that he pledged a generous donation and described to the other attendees how touched he was by our longevity and dedication to the community.

Vibha and Puneet Daga and their daughter Saanvi graciously hosted an information session in their home on April 4 on behalf of the Free Clinic of Simi Valley. The event gave community members a chance to hear from the Free Clinic about the area children and families who find pathways to better health through the clinic's medical, dental, therapy, and legal services. The Daga family provided delicious Indian food for the group. Speakers included Puneet, Executive Director Fred Bauermeister, Dr. Rebecca Berke, supporter Pat Lewis, and board member Tommi Diaz. 

To support area children and families through the Free Clinic, you may choose from a variety of options here.

The Center for Nonprofit Leadership honored Fred and Becca Bauermeister with Visionary Leadership Awards for their service to the nonprofit world at the Center's annual Celebration of the Sector event on November 6. Their tireless work and commitment to strengthening communities was met with a standing ovation from guests who had filled the conference room at the Museum of Ventura County.  The Board of Directors at the Free Clinic of Simi Valley are proud of Fred and Becca for the well-deserved recognition of their efforts. 

Over the span of four weeks, three local homes have opened their doors to host events on behalf of the Free Clinic of Simi Valley. Free Clinic pediatrician Beth Melin-Perel and husband Israel hosted on September 13, Annette Haag welcomed guests on September 24, and Lisa and Richard Eidman offered their hospitality on October 8. Speakers included Executive Director Fred Bauermeister, Dr. Perel, Dr. Tracey Young, patients Marta Gonzalez and Luis Fuentes, supporter Pat Lewis, past board president Dr. Jonathan Kurohara, and current board member Tommi Diaz. 

The events gave community members a chance to hear from the Free Clinic about the area children and families who find pathways to better health through the clinic's medical, dental, therapy, and legal services. To support area children and families through the Free Clinic, you may choose from a variety of options here.

What can you get the woman who has everything? When Paul Miller thought about his wife Connie's upcoming 80th birthday, he wanted more than a birthday cake. He wanted to honor her legacy of community and family support, often standing in the wings as he took the spotlight in his community leadership roles. "I saw that the Free Clinic had an opportunity to sponsor a room and I thought That's perfect. Connie agreed to it, as long as we included both of our names."

Fred Bauermeister, Executive Director, and Julie Henszey, Director of Development, gave a tour to Connie and Paul, letting them view all of the available options for room sponsorship. They chose a medical exam room, one of five where doctors see patients.

​"Paul and Connie have been strong supporters of the Free Clinic for many years," Fred stated. "They are the kind of people that show their love through service and financial support for the community. I am always touched by their concern for others." 

Empathy is often the driving force guiding community movers and shakers to support families with nowhere else to turn. The Free Clinic has been filling this gap for over fifty years. Annual, renewable sponsorships are available for $4000 per year. Sponsors choose the length of time that fits with their overall goals. 
 
Thank you to Connie and Paul for their commitment to creating and sustaining a healthy community.