Two people shared a dream and their vision created the Neighborhood Health Clinic... a medical home for working poor adults in Collier County. This vision changed healthcare in our community forever and for the better.

Conceived in the Lascheid's living room and fueled by the shared enthusiasm of friends, the Neighborhood Health Clinic was born in November 1998 - just two short months after Dr. Bill and Nancy Lascheid retired from their full-time Naples dermatology practice.

"From day one, it was clear that this was something special because it immediately took on a life of its own," said Nancy. The concept of a medical clinic for the working poor gained momentum and attracted supporters who helped to clear what seemed like indecipherable and insurmountable obstacles:  state regulations, initial funding, real estate, equipment and staff. With lots of help from professionals and volunteers in the community, the clinic was able to open its doors in April 1999.

The first location was a dilapidated former storefront in Grand Central Station, a shopping center that has since been razed. A group of stalwart medical and non-medical volunteers (many of them still with the Clinic) provided services to patients in the first month.

The Clinic is currently located in spacious and modern 11,000 square foot state-of-the-art building at 121 Goodlette Road North. The continuing generosity of donors and this community has allowed the clinic to flourish.

The Lascheid's philosophy and vision still guides the daily activities, including but not limited to:

• The quality of care will be impeccable and each patient will be treated with dignity and respect.
• Patients will receive what they need to heal their bodies including consultation with a Florida licensed physician, any required medical testing and prescribed medications.
• Patients will contribute monetarily for this care.
• Each patient will receive benefits for the soul - a touch by a staff member or volunteer, a handshake and eye contact from the doctor, humor and gentleness from the translators and always a warm smile from caregivers throughout the clinic.
• The mission will always be patient-driven.
• The Clinic will not accept any government funding.