Gratitude Report 2024

Thank you for transforming lives!

A Letter from our CEO

Dear Friends,

As we unveil our first annual Gratitude Report, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of appreciation and humility for the trailblazers, dream weavers, and champions of accessible healthcare Federally Qualified Health Center and is a testament to the remarkable who have made our work at Axis Community Health possible and impac

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In the Tri-Valley, we served over 14,000 patients last year each with their own stories, challenges, and hopes. Our commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate care has remained unwavering, from serving young families to older adults. We are thankful for the thousands of lives that are transformed each year at our health center, the burdens lifted, and the smiles restored.

However, despite our dedication and the support of our community, the financial challenges facing all Community Health Centers (CHCs) persist. While federal funding for CHCs has increased in nominal terms since 2015, inflation and an increase in patients during this period have resulted in a decline in inflation-adjusted terms and an even larger decline on a real, perpatient basis. This trend underscores the critical need for sustained and increased investment in CHCs to ensure that we can continue to provide quality care to all who need it, regardless of their ability to pay, as the impact of CHCs extends far beyond individual patient care and even medicine. As we navigate the complexities of healthcare financing, we remain committed to advocating for the continued resources necessary to fulfill our mission of caring for medically underserved communities and populations.

As we celebrate the milestone of serving patients for 52 years, we are also acutely aware of the growing need within our area for accessible healthcare. It is with great anticipation and a sense of responsibility that we embrace the opening of our new clinic in Livermore later this year, which will allow us to extend our services to an additional 5,600 patients each year, providing primary care, behavioral health, dental, and enrollment services in one convenient location, all within reach for those who need it most.

We dedicate this report to the pioneers who laid the groundwork for Community Health Centers nationwide, to our staff, who embody the essence of selfless service every day, and to you, our partners and supporters. We owe so much to our community and to the giants whose shoulders we stand upon, those visionaries who paved the way for CHCs like ours to thrive. The pulse of Axis Community Health beats strong with local community support and the collective effort of countless individuals who believe in the power of accessible healthcare. You are part of the bounding heartbeat of Axis Community Health, the steady rhythm of our mission, and I am excited to move together on this important journey forward.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Liz Perez-Howe CEO, Axis Community Health

The History of Community Health Centers and the Continued Need for Expansion

increasing our patient base by 40%. Our expansion is a testament to the enduring need for whole-person healthcare tailored to medically underserved communities a demand that continues to grow alongside population gains. Community Health Centers have blossomed into the backbone of our nation's primary care infrastructure, providing care for over 31.5 million Americans today. Yet, as we reflect on our progress and the path ahead, we acknowledge the necessity to further advance Community Health Centers due to the stark reality that over 120 million Americans still find themselves without access to affordable healthcare.

As we pen this chapter of our Gratitude Report, we do so with great respect and indebtedness for those who came before us the trailblazers who dared to dream of a world where access to comprehensive healthcare is the norm for all. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those who walk through our doors. To our staff, volunteers, donors, and the entire community, your stalwart support fuels our resolve to push forward, innovate, and expand our reach. Together, we do not just provide healthcare; we nurture hope, foster wellbeing, and build a healthier future. For this profound privilege, we are grateful.

Health Care For Everyone

At Axis Community Health, our mission is to ensure all members of our community have access to vital healthcare services irrespective of their income, language, sexual orientation, culture, housing or insurance status. Our comprehensive care is designed to meet the diverse needs of our community members of every age. As a non-profit organization, Axis has provided accessible, high-quality healthcare in the Tri-Valley since 1972. Across our five locations, we care for over 14,000 Tri-Valley residents

We offer services in an inclusive and culturally informed way designed to cater to every aspect of community health:

Adult, Pediatric, and Geriatric Medical Care

Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Family Planning

Acupuncture and Chiropractic Services

Dental Care

Mental Health Counseling

Axis Bridge Mental Health Urgent Care

Integrated Behavioral Health

Enrollment Assistance

Case Management

WIC Nutrition Program

Axis primarily serves individuals and families with income levels 100% or more below the Federal Poverty Line (FPL), which translates to $31,200 for a family of four In terms of their health needs, our community faces significant challenges with high rates of chronic diseases such as hypertension, mental health diagnoses, obesity, and diabetes Through our unwavering commitment to quality, whole-person care, and the support of our donors and government partners, we will continue to grow our impact, ensuring a healthier future for everyone in our community

Impact Snapshot 2023

In 2023, Axis provided more than 125,000 healthcare visits to over 14,000 patients

54,000+

14,000+ health insurance enrollment assistance appointments medical visits (in-person and telehealth)

19,000+ behavioral health visits (in-person and telehealth)

5,700+ dental visits

Patient Stories

The Impact of Quality Health Care Access on Our Patients’

A 5-year-old patient came for an exam appointment due to needing a school assessment form filled out. The patient was very nervous as this was their first time ever seeing a dentist. With pediatric behavior management methods such as -- show-tell-do and using child-friendly terminology -- the patient calmed after an exam; cleaning; and fluoride treatment was completed. The parents also had a younger infant sibling accompanying them. The Axis dentist took this opportunity to review the importance of oral health with the family. She explained that the first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the eruption of the child’s first tooth. The parents were unaware of this but now understand the importance of prevention, annual checkups with the dentist, and establishing a dental home.

A 62-year-old patient was internally referred by their medical provider after having an appointment with that physician due to digestion problems and pain after eating. The physician noticed the patient had several broken teeth and shared that Axis has dental services available. The dental team received this referral and reached out to the patient to schedule an appointment. During the patient’s appointment, it was revealed that this was the patient’s first time in their life seeing a dentist. Upon exam, several teeth were noted as broken or severely decayed. A treatment plan was reviewed with the patient and while several teeth unfortunately needed to be removed, we also spent time discussing the plan for tooth replacement and oral care for the remaining teeth that would be saved. Ultimately the patient had: extractions completed; a cleaning of their remaining teeth; and fabrication of upper and lower partial dentures to restore form and function. At a follow-up visit with their medical provider, the patient reported that the digestion issue had eased and they feel like they are able to chew and eat more adequately.

Increasing Access to Care Primary Care

We remain committed to our mission of providing comprehensive, whole-person care to our community and we provide these services to patients of all ages. Our primary care providers are an important source of care that encompasses early detection and treatment of diseases, chronic disease management, and preventive care. Axis’ dedicated medical team is comprised of licensed, board-certified family practitioners, internists, pediatricians, and nurse practitioners, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care. Axis understands that navigating the enrollment process for health care programs can be complex, which is why our Enrollment Services Department is staffed with knowledgeable professionals who are ready to assist patients in understanding and accessing programs such as Medi-Cal, Covered California, CalFresh, Medicare, HealthPAC, and Healthy Families

Studies have shown that patients who have a consistent source of care are more likely to receive recommended preventive services such as flu shots, blood pressure screenings, and cancer screenings. However, we recognize that disparities in access to primary care persist, with many individuals facing barriers that impede their ability to access essential services and ultimately increase their risk of poor health outcomes.

By teaching individuals about the benefits of preventive measures, our goal is to ensure that more people receive the recommended services they need to stay healthy. Not only does this lead to a higher quality of life for individuals, but it also results in significant cost savings in the long run by reducing the need for frequent visits to the doctor, urgent care, or the emergency room to address problems associated with preventable risk factors.

Axis Enrollment Counselors Are Here to Help!

A 68-year-old patient with diabetes lost his Medi-Cal coverage and, as a result, was struggling with the outof-pocket costs for insulin and other medications. The Axis Enrollment team successfully re-enrolled him into Medi-Cal, which covers the costs of the patient’s insulin and medications providing him with affordable health care coverage.

Behavioral Health

Axis is committed to meeting individuals where they are and providing compassionate care that fosters hope and healing. In addition to primary care, we offer integrated behavioral health services, which include comprehensive counseling for adults, teens, couples, families, and children, tailored to each individual's unique needs. Our goal is to ensure that individuals receive timely support during critical moments, promoting mental well-being for all members of our community

Patients grappling with a variety of struggles, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorders, and relationship conflicts, receive tailored treatment plans. Additionally, we offer drug testing and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for those undergoing substance use disorder treatment. Our counseling services are a vital support, empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges with resilience and insight.

Our team offers both individual and group treatment modalities, utilizing evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to facilitate healing and growth. We prioritize prevention and screening, integrating routine assessments for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders throughout our organization.

Since its launch in July 2021, our innovative urgent health intervention, Axis Bridge has emerged as a vital resource for individuals in Dublin, Livermore, and Pleasanton facing mental health challenges. Our compassionate team is committed to providing immediate support regardless of insurance coverage or lack thereof. We assist individuals and families in navigating the mental health system, ensuring prompt access to necessary care. By intervening early, we have successfully reduced hospitalizations for mental health reasons. This is particularly crucial in our region, where we have observed elevated rates of youth experiencing difficulties. Axis Bridge isn't just about preventing crises; it's about building a stronger, healthier community for everyone.

Why I Give:

Axis Supporter Profile

In the heart of the Tri-Valley, Mark and Maria Triska are longtime supporters of their community. Their journey with Axis Community Health began many years ago, sparked by a government-funded youth mentoring program. As mentors, they forged personal connections that illuminated the vital role of community health, setting them on a path of deep engagement with Axis.

Mark Triska's involvement grew from mentoring to pivotal roles in expanding Axis's reach, including securing locations to enhance service access and volunteering on the Capital Campaign Committee for our flagship Pleasanton location. The duo's contributions have been instrumental, most notably in their recent efforts to propel our capital campaign for a new clinic in Livermore. Their decision to host a donor event was driven by a simple yet profound belief, "When you educate on opportunity and need...it is not hard to get people to give."

The Triska’s understand both the importance of providing quality, accessible healthcare from the standpoint of recognizing our common humanity and for the protections offered to our local economy. Prioritizing healthcare access ensures that individuals can take care of themselves and their families. Healthy individuals can work productively, supporting local businesses and contributing to economic growth. They're more likely to stay employed and less reliant on costly emergency care. The ripple effect of good health reverberates throughout our entire community, strengthening social bonds, fostering resilience, and creating a sense of shared prosperity. When our neighbors are healthy and thriving, we all benefit. By leveraging their personal relationships, the Triska’s created a platform for Axis to share our vital impact on the health of our community, demonstrating that when people understand the impact of their support, generosity follows.

Mark and Maria Triska's philanthropic journey is deeply rooted in their belief in supporting local initiatives, whether it be healthcare, the arts, or faith-based organizations. "We have a donoradvised fund, and we use it for local community organizations like Axis," they explain, underlining the importance of investing in the well-being of their community. Their diverse interests and contributions reflect a holistic view of philanthropy, one that nurtures the body, mind, and soul. Maria's passion for the arts and mental health resonates through her involvement with the Festival Napa Valley, reflecting a shared belief in the healing power of music and education. "Maria's parents are both accomplished musicians and educators," they shared, underscoring the role of the arts in fostering well-being.

“Whenyou educateon opportunityand need...itisnot hardtoget peopletogive.”

Mark and Maria Triska's hope is that their journey will inspire others to see the possibilities of what can be achieved through collaboration, for the health and well-being of all in our community. The Triska’s journey encourages us to open our doors and hearts, to see the strength of our community lies in the hands of those willing to support it. Their involvement with Axis is not just about giving back but about building forward, together.

Why I Work at Axis

Without our staff, we would not be able to provide our community with accessible and compassionate health care. They shared why they chose to work at Axis and our impact on the people we serve.

What moves me to work at Axis is that I can help the community that I live in. The satisfaction that comes from the gratitude and appreciation I receive from the people I assist in accessing our services is so fulfilling. Axis Community Health is extremely important as we assist our medically underserved community in improving their health and preventing and treating their illnesses.

Erika Alvarez

Enrollment Lead

It is both a pleasure and an honor to work at Axis Community Health. I love that my job allows me to support an organization which gives back to the lives of individuals and families in our community! What we do daily matters to our communities, our patients and our staff. Our impact can be subtle and sometimes hidden but knowing that we ' re doing great work is so energizing!

Brenda Jorgensen

Director of Administrative Services

What brought me to Axis was my passion for helping people and I wanted to be surrounded by others who shared my values. Axis has supported me through every milestone in my education from front desk receptionist into my career as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. After 15 years at Axis, I have to say that the way we make a difference is being a warm, healthcare home for our patients. They are able to access a variety of services here that contribute to their overall well-being.

Heather Cusumano, LMFT IBH Staff Therapist

New Clinic Update

We are looking forward to the opening of our new clinic at 1686 Second Street in Livermore later this year an expansion made possible through our community's incredible generosity and support. The journey to this milestone began with a goal of raising $1.3 million through our capital campaign by July 2025. We are excited to share that our pledges have surpassed that target, a testament to the investment our community has in the mission of Axis Community Health.

Designed to meet the growing needs of our community, the new clinic will be a one-stop shop for our patients to access affordable dental care, behavioral health, primary care and enrollment services. It will feature six dental chairs, offering a wide array of dental services, including exams with x-rays, cleanings, fluoride application, fillings, sealants, dentures, crowns, root canals, extractions, and invaluable oral health education Our approach is not just about treating illness but preventing it, with culturally sensitive and bilingual services, ensuring that every patient feels seen, heard, and respected. The clinic will also house six medical exam rooms, three mental health counseling rooms, a health insurance enrollment office, a community health worker office, telehealth rooms, labs, and other support areas. This expansion allows us to double our medical and behavioral health services in Livermore, significantly increasing access to dental care for our patients all under one roof. Our new site is poised to significantly enhance our service capacity, with the potential for 20,000 total visits per year for 5,600 patients. This includes 9,000 medical visits, 7,300 dental visits, and 3,700 mental health visits. Each number represents a life touched, a disease prevented, or a smile restored a powerful reminder of the impact of our work and the strong community need for these vital services.

We deeply appreciate every donation, every word of encouragement, and every pledge of support that has made this moment possible. As we prepare to open the doors of our new clinic, we do so with a sense of gratitude and responsibility. We are reminded of the trust placed in us by our community and the importance of our mission to provide whole-person, integrated care. This new site is not just a building; it's a promise to make a meaningful impact in the lives we serve.

Pleasanton

5925 W. Las Positas Blvd., Suite 100

Pleasanton, CA 94588

Medical and Behavioral Health Services

4361 Railroad Avenue

Pleasanton, CA 94566

Medical and Behavioral Health Services

1991-H Santa Rita Road

Pleasanton, CA 94566 (Mission Plaza Shopping Center) WIC Nutrition Program Only

Livermore

3311 Pacific Avenue

Livermore, CA 94550 Medical and Behavioral Health Services

Coming Soon: 1686 Second Street

Livermore, CA 94550

Medical, Dental, and Behavioral Health Services

Dublin

7212 Regional Street

Dublin, CA 94568

(Almond Plaza Shopping Center)

Dental Services Only

Ways to Donate to Axis

We appreciate the generosity of each of our donors, who have helped give us the capacity to serve over 14,000 patients annually. Each gift has allowed us to further improve our community’s access to quality, whole-person healthcare.

From each of us at Axis Community Health, we thank you!

A healthy community needs the support of all of us. Will you help us continue this transformative work?

To donate, please visit https://axishealth.org/donations or scan the QR code with your phone's camera.

If you would prefer to donate by mail, you may send your check to:

Axis Community Health

Attn: Development Office

5925 W. Las Positas Blvd., Ste. 100

Pleasanton, CA 94588

Tax ID: 94-2232394

Go to your phone's camera app and point the camera at this QR code.

Please write “Capital Campaign” in the memo line. If you have questions about making a donation, you can call 925.201.6068 or email vtishman@axishealth.org.

In our Axis Gratitude Report, we ' ve only scratched the surface of the incredible impact achieved in the last year, all thanks to the dedication of our patients, staff, community partners, and supporters like you.

Discover the full extent of our efforts at AxisHealth.org, where we ' re tirelessly advocating for and providing compassionate care to every patient, regardless of their ability to pay. Join us in continuing to make a transformative difference in the lives of those we serve.

The mission of Axis Community Health is to provide quality, affordable, accessible and compassionate health care services that promote the well-being of all members of the community.