By Daily Press staff
The Venice Family Clinic this year raised almost $800,000 toward another year of medical care for the poor.
Founded in 1970, Venice Family is the largest free clinic in the nation and serves 18,751 patients at seven different locations. “The best part is that all of the funds go to people who have no access to medical care, including 5,510 children,” said co-chair Irma Colen.
At the 22nd Annual Silver Circle Gala, stars Harry Shearer and Martin Short were on hand to bestow awards.
Receiving the clinic’s Humanitarian Award were the co-heads of DreamWorks Pictures, Walter Parkes & Laurie McDonald. The pair have been involved with the clinic since 1992 and presented a $25,000 check for a new counseling room addition named for their family.
The Irma Colen Leadership Award was given to Dr. Al and Pam Markovitz. Al Markovitz has been a dedicated volunteer physician and has not only recruited his colleagues over the past 30 years, but has facilitated numerous donations.
The Skirball Foundation received the first ever Philanthropy Award for its record-breaking gift of $750,000. This single largest gift will endow the medical director position, which means thousands of adults and children will be cared for no matter what their financial situation.
The mission of the Venice Family Clinic is to improve the health of people and communities through accessible, quality care.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on March 10, 2004. Read the original PDF.