Dr. Tom Lewis, a retired dentist from Willow Creek, has earned widespread recognition for his years of volunteer work and unwavering commitment to improving the health and smiles of countless individuals. Nominated by several community members and supported by local health care organizations, Lewis is praised for his dedication to those in need, particularly through his instrumental role in organizing a free health care clinic that provided vital services to hundreds of people.
Last summer, Dr. Lewis coordinated a free clinic at the Adorni Center, where more than 200 dental patients, nearly 220 vision patients (many of whom left with new glasses), and over 500 medical patients were treated over just two days. Thanks to his efforts, the clinic was able to offer $278,551 worth of care to the local community—a remarkable accomplishment that would not have been possible without his initiative. As noted in a nomination letter from Beverly Lewis (no relation to Tom), this free clinic provided services that many patients would have otherwise gone without.
In addition to organizing the event, Dr. Lewis raised more than $50,000 in funding and spent countless hours speaking at public meetings and forums to gather the support needed to make the clinic a reality. Local resident Sarah Vogel, another supporter, estimated that Dr. Lewis dedicated no less than 1,000 hours of his time to ensure the success of the clinic, noting that his leadership was key to its success. Vogel also praised Dr. Lewis for personally volunteering his dental expertise when there were insufficient professionals to help.
Dr. Lewis’ work has not been limited to a single event. His volunteer efforts with California CareForce have spanned across the United States and even extended to international communities. His passion for providing care to low-income and disadvantaged people has long been evident, including his fight to make Medi-Cal services available to those who needed them most. In a 2002 article, Dr. Lewis was recognized for offering dental care to Medi-Cal patients at the Willow Creek Family Health Center—one of the few local providers to do so at the time.
Throughout his career and beyond, Dr. Lewis has exemplified the very best of his profession. His deep compassion, faith, and commitment to serving others have left a lasting impact on both his local and global communities. Humboldt Health Care for All, along with other supporters, wholeheartedly backed his nomination, recognizing him as a true pillar of service and a shining example of generosity in action.
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