CLINICS HONOR COMMUNITY HEALTH CHAMPIONS

Marin Community Clinics hosted the annual Summer Solstice Celebration, which returned in-person on June 22 at Rickey’s in Novato. The event honored the 2022 Community Health Champions who have extraordinarily contributed to the health and well-being of Marin County’s residents.

Marian Huntington, founder and executive director of NovatoSpirit, and Dr. Erik Schten, Novato site medical director at Marin Community Clinics, were recognized for their achievements at the celebration, which was highlighted by a tribute to MCC’s golden anniversary – “50 Years of Touching Lives Through Health.”

“I have seen the many ways that children’s lives are enriched by the opportunities that Marian has made possible for them,” said Dr. Tracey Hessel, Marin Community Clinics associate medical director in pediatrics. “In addition to health and self-esteem benefits, these experiences provide mentorship and community.”

Dr. Schten has provided primary care at Marin Community Clinics for more than 20 years. He has led Novato Clinic medical teams and as site medical director has fostered collaboration and shepherded specialty care such as dermatology and gerontology into the clinics.

“Dr. Schten epitomizes what Marin Community Clinics is all about,” said Dr. Mitesh Popat, CEO at Marin Community Clinics. “He is a superb clinician, actively encourages patients to take responsibility for their health, and focuses on healthy lifestyles as the key to maintaining and regaining health.”

Founded in 1972 with a few volunteer physicians providing free health care services out of a church basement, Marin Community Clinics has grown into a thriving network of modern clinics offering a depth of services and programs to nearly one in five Marin County residents – regardless of their ability to pay. For more information, visit marinclinic.org.