In the early 2000s, Reverend Dr. Joseph Faulkner and a group of visionary community members identified a critical need for free medical care in Centre County. Inspired by the first Volunteers in Medicine clinic in Hilton Head, CVIM was born in 2003. What began as a small primary care clinic on Westerly Parkway has since evolved into a comprehensive health center, expanding to include dental care, women’s health, specialty medicine, case management, prescription assistance, and behavioral health services.
From our early days on Westerly Parkway to our larger clinic on Green Tech Drive, we now operate out of our permanent home on Sandy Drive—a testament to the generosity of our community and the success of our Capital Campaign. Thanks to the contributions of our supporters, we have a new space free from the burden of a mortgage, allowing us to focus even more resources on patient care.
The uninsured are everywhere in our county, often hidden. United Way calls them ALICE - Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, or the working poor. Many work multiple jobs but can't afford insurance. They prioritize housing, food, and transportation over healthcare, making preventative care inaccessible.
In 2023, 14,177 people in Centre County lacked health insurance. The uninsured often go without care or resort to emergency rooms, increasing costs for everyone. Free clinics offer a lifeline, with 1,400 nationwide and over 40 in Pennsylvania.
CVIM is the only free clinic in Centre County. We're not a walk-in clinic; patients must qualify for services and live or work in Centre County. Eligibility requires a household income below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines, which is $38,000 for an individual and up to $78,000 for a family of four. Applicants cannot have insurance for the service they seek.
Our Mission
Centre Volunteers in Medicine will serve and advocate for the medically underserved living or working in Centre County, PA.
Our Vision
All those living or working in Centre County, PA have access to health care.