Hope Clinic of Garland – serving for 25 years
From Staff Reports
It was a celebration, one many looked forward to annually as they heard about the many accomplishments of Hope Clinic of Garland.
This year was special for several reasons as Hope celebrated 25 years of serving the underserved.
Then came the announcement that executive director Tonya Downing would be stepping down. This announcement came with expressions of support and appreciation for her years of service, it also brought about sadness from those who praised her leadership of and commitment to Hope Clinic.
As always the room was packed.
Following informative presentations from Dr. Frederick P. Cerise, President and CEO of Parkland Health and Hospital System, and Luis Gonzalez, CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of North Texas; Texas State Representative Rhetta Bowers also praised Downing, who was then presented with flowers from the Clinic Board.
Downing, who said it was her decision to leave the place where she had poured so much into, leaned on her faith in deciding the time was right.
Recounting the history of Hope Clinic, which was conceptualized at First Baptist Garland Church when two members decided they wanted to focus on providing quality healthcare to indigent and uninsured residents of Garland.
Noting that supporters and volunteers included everyone from corporate executives and medical students to former patients and family members, Downing acknowledged that the spiritual foundation was important because the clinic was “spiritually grounded and community centered.”
Rep. Bowers said she was unaware of what was happening at Hope Clinic but she was glad that a persistent Downing kept the invitation open, because she was immediately impressed. Seeing her leadership, compassion and impact made the representative commit to check out what Downing was so passionate about.
Coming from a home with medical influence, the Rep’s father was a surgeon, Bowers noted how important the Clinic was, especially when you consider the rising cost of healthcare.
Surrounded by family and loved ones, Downing noted many areas of growth and development under her leadership, including successful fundraisers and earning a Gold Rating from the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) Quality Standards Program.
But there are some challenges, it was pointed out. Currently located at 800 S. Sixth Street in Garland, TX, Hope Clinic is in search of a new home. Supporters are optimistic that with the sound footing that Downing is leaving the Clinic, it is destined for continued growth and increased support, guaranteeing another 25 years of service.
