41 JULY 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition COMMUNITY NEWS A ribbon cutting ceremony marked the opening of The Holy Cross Health Family Health Center in June. The Center addresses the diverse needs of the local community and serves as a centralized hub for a wide array of healthcare services for patients of all ages, as well as job-readiness and support service programs for adults. Through a comprehensive community health needs assessment conducted in 2021, it became clear that accessible outpatient health care services were urgently needed in east Broward County for adults and children. Services at the Holy Cross Health Family Health Center will include primary care, annual wellness check-ups, immunizations, social services, pediatric therapy, community education and support, laboratory services, medical nutrition therapy, and culinary medicine. “The Holy Cross Health Family Health Center represents our commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and care for the common good,” said Kim Saiswick, VP of Community Health and Well-being. “It will make a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals, providing them with the care and resources they need to lead healthier, happier lives.” Spanning 15,000 square feet, the facility is located on the first floor of the Holy Cross Medical Plaza at 5601 N. Dixie Hwy. in Oakland Park and is the only healthcare facility in eastern and northern Broward County to provide pediatric occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech language therapy under one roof. The office features a low stimulation room for pediatric patients with sensory sensitivities, such as individuals on the autism spectrum. Feeding therapy is available for infants and toddlers who have trouble swallowing and patients can learn how to feed themselves using adaptive utensils. In addition to health care services, the Family Health Center will also host workshops on resume writing, interviewing skills labs, personal finance and budgeting to assist adults with gaining employment and self-sufficiency. The Family Health Center is initially open Monday to Friday during normal business hours but will eventually expand to include some evenings and weekend hours. The Family Health Center was made possible entirely through philanthropic support, thanks to the generosity of The Jim Moran Foundation, The Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. Foundation, S. Donald Sussman, Aetna, Jeffrey Kusch, the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation and many other valued donors. There are still opportunities to contribute to this meaningful community project. To donate, go to HolyCross.com/Giving. Holy Cross Health Family Health Center Opens in Oakland Park Rudy Molinet, Laura Denoux, Gordon Latz, Steve Mehallis and Pierre Monice The Holy Cross Health leadership team and Board of Directors members celebrate the opening of the Holy Cross Health Family Health Center Over 160 guests gathered at MAD Arts on Thursday, May 29 for NAMI Broward County’s 4th Annual Artful Minds event. This one-of-a-kind fundraising event showcased an extraordinary lineup of local artists whose work explores the intersection of mental health and artistic expression. Through their stories and craft, these artists offer powerful insights into lived experiences, healing and hope. Guests began the evening exploring powerful art exhibitions, including a live painting by Ray Sirois and an interactive workshop with Lori Arbel. The Artful Minds program followed, with opening remarks by Dr. Joe Oravecz, CEO of NAMI Broward County, who spoke to the healing power of art and the importance of mental health awareness. The evening continued with heartfelt testimonials, inspiring performances, and a special video message from Adam David, winner of NBC’s The Voice, Season 27. “Our annual Artful Minds event celebrates how the power of art and creativity inspire understanding and support and honor the resilience and strength of those living with mental health conditions,” said Dr. Joe Oravecz, CEO of NAMI Broward County. “No one should have to face their mental health journey alone, and by supporting Artful Minds, you are helping to build a community where connection, compassion, and care are always within reach.” All proceeds from Artful Minds will support NAMI Broward County’s vital mental health programs, including peer and family support groups, youth education, and mentorship initiatives. In 2024, these programs helped over 9,000 individuals across Broward County, providing education, support, and a sense of community for those affected by mental health conditions. To learn more about NAMI Broward County, please visit www.namibroward.org. 4th Annual “Artful Minds” Raises Funds for Mental Health Programs Suzette Fleischmann, Lisa Ruggieri, Dr. Joe Oravecz h r (Credit Robert Mayer, Holy Cross Health) (Credit Downtown Photo)
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