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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING LAWNDALE CHRISTIAN HEALTH CENTER ON THEIR 40TH ANNIVERSARY
WHEREAS, Lawndale Christian Health Center (LCHC) was founded on September 22, 1984 with a mission to demonstrate and share the love of Jesus by promoting wellness and providing quality, affordable healthcare to the Lawndale and surrounding communities on Chicago’s West Side; and
WHEREAS, for forty years, LCHC has been a beacon of hope, compassion, and transformation, addressing critical health disparities and offering a holistic approach to healthcare that uplifts and empowers individuals and families in need; and
WHEREAS, Dr. James Brooks, Chief Executive Officer of Lawndale Christian Health Center, has demonstrated outstanding leadership since joining the organization in 2013 and stepping into the CEO role in 2022, overseeing its growth while reinforcing its mission to provide quality, affordable healthcare grounded in the love of Jesus; and
WHEREAS, in 2024, Lawndale Christian Health Center celebrates forty years of service, during which it has been blessed to expand with 9 additional sites providing clinical and holistic health care on Chicago's West Side, including Archer, Breakthrough, the Eye Clinic, Farragut Academy, the Health & Fitness Center and Green Tomato Café, Homan Square, The Gallery (Recovery Community and SUD Clinic), the Immediate Care Clinic & Pharmacy, and the Senior Center; and
WHEREAS, over the past four decades, LCHC has expanded its services to include primary care, mental health services, dental care, substance abuse treatment, and numerous community wellness programs, remaining true to its mission of serving the most vulnerable populations with dignity and respect; and
WHEREAS, in celebrating its 40th anniversary, LCHC implemented the Family Medicine Residency Program, further strengthening the health center’s commitment to training healthcare professionals who are dedicated to serving their communities; and
WHEREAS, LCHC has continuously expanded its reach, including through its Mobile Health Team, which has provided vital healthcare services to new shelter sites, ensuring that migrant families seeking asylum receive the care they desperately need; and
WHEREAS, over the years, LCHC has experienced remarkable growth, including the hiring of 47 new staff members in Fiscal Year 2023 alone, reflecting the organization’s significant role in local employment and professional development for the community; and
WHEREAS, throughout its forty years of service, LCHC has provided life-changing programs such as the Diabetes Prevention Program, which empowers participants to adopt healthier lifestyles and improve their long-term health outcomes; and
WHEREAS, LCHC has been at the forefront of addressing urgent public health issues, such as the opioid crisis, providing critical services to those most vulnerable, as evidenced by Dr. Brooks’ personal encounter with the tragedy of an overdose death, which further inspired his resolve and underscored the urgency of LCHC’s work in addressing substance abuse and addiction; and
WHEREAS, LCHC continues to nurture its culture of care through initiatives like the Golden Touch Award, which celebrates staff members who exemplify exceptional care and service, creating a supportive and compassionate workplace where employees feel valued and empowered; and
WHEREAS, LCHC has remained deeply committed to the spiritual and emotional health of its patients and staff, maintaining strong partnerships with faith-based and community organizations such as Lawndale Christian Community Church, Lawndale Christian Development Corporation, and Lawndale Christian Legal Center, all working to serve the West Side; and
WHEREAS, LCHC’s approach to health care incorporates more than just medical services, recognizing the equal importance of emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being. The Center continues to expand services like behavioral health, treatment for opioid use disorder, and weekday programming for seniors. In addition, LCHC operates a fitness center, café, event venues, and an urban farm that invite the entire community to participate in its mission, whether or not they seek medical care; and
WHEREAS, to continue its legacy of holistic health and wellness in the community, LCHC is currently building a Teaching Health Center, set to be completed in June 2026. This new facility will feature 35 exam rooms and 35,000 square feet of lecture, education, and clinical space, creating even more opportunities to serve the community for generations to come; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby recognize and celebrate the 40th anniversary of Lawndale Christian Health Center, commending its unwavering dedication to providing quality healthcare, fostering wellness, and promoting equity in the Lawndale community and beyond; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President and the Cook County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. James Brooks, the leadership team, and the entire staff of LCHC for their tireless efforts and continued service, which have made an extraordinary impact on the health and well-being of Cook County residents for the past 40 years and that Lawndale Christian Health Center receive ceremonial copies of this resolution.
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