This month, NHC celebrates a milestone that reflects the heart of our mission and the strength of our community: 15 years of serving patients and families with compassionate, comprehensive care.

Since we opened our first clinic in Aloha in 2010, NHC has provided over 674,000 appointments to people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Each visit is more than a number — it represents a conversation, a connection, and a step toward improved health.

Over the past 15 years, our impact has included:

• 52,866 individuals served through primary care
• 56,239 through dental care
• 2,754 students supported through school-based health centers
• 3,474 through our Community Dental Program
• 41,162 behavioral health visits

These achievements are made possible by our dedicated staff who have guided us through each chapter of our history. From our very first hires, including Physician Associate Maggie MehdianRad and Registered Nurse Sally Loprinzi who still serve patients at our Tanasbourne location, to the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) who have throughout the years helped shape our mission, we are proud of our passionate staff who make compassionate care possible.

“14 years ago, I began with NHC as a contracted dental hygienist, and as I reflect on the years that have passed since then, it’s tremendous to see how much we’ve grown!” says Alynn Vienot Hayes, Director of Dental Clinic Operations.  Alynn joined NHC in 2012 to provide dental screenings at Head Start, the first outreach service offered by NHC’s Community Dental Program.

“Our impact on thousands of patients over the years has been made possible through the hard work of our teams and support from many community partners. The heart of our mission is exemplified by our leadership and employees, past and present, who have helped us become the organization we are today.”

Milestones like the start of our Community Dental Program in 2011, the first annual health fair in 2014, the addition of school-based health centers in 2017, and the 2024 integration of an in-clinic dispensing pharmacy mark how far we’ve grown in response to community needs.

We’re also proud of the partnerships that have helped make this work possible. NHC was formed by CareOregon in response to a lack of accessible healthcare in the Portland area and branched out from there. CareOregon is still a strong partner, as are local schools, community-based organizations, and dedicated sponsors and donors.  We appreciative of all our partners who have supported us and our patients. Your belief in equitable, high-quality care keeps us moving forward and changing lives.

As we celebrate 15 years, we’re not just looking back on our legacy and accomplishments — we’re building upon our achievements to continue this good work and maximize our impact in the community. With every patient we serve, every family we support, and every barrier we remove, we are working toward a healthier future for the communities we serve.

“In my 12 years with NHC, it’s been incredibly rewarding to witness our growth – from just three clinics and a team of 35 to now nine clinics and over 265 dedicated employees, all united by our mission to build healthy communities one neighbor at a time,” says Penny L. Moore, Director of Development and Communications.

“Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of hearing countless inspiring stories – from patients, staff, and community members – that continue to fill me with pride and purpose. I’m truly grateful to be part of a nonprofit organization that changes lives and strengthens the communities we serve every single day.”

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. When we work together, we not only make meaningful changes, we create a stronger future for our community.