Twelve months ago, our community cut the ribbon on more than just a new building. We opened the doors to a place of hope and healing—a clinic built to remind every patient that they are seen, valued and not alone.
As wonderful as the new building is, the need of the community surrounding it remains great. Texas continues to hold the highest rate of uninsured residents in the nation. Here in Comal County alone, 13.3% of residents live without health insurance, and more than 13,500 people live in poverty. For them, health care is not just hard to access—it can feel completely out of reach.
That’s why Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) exists. We stand in the gap for our neighbors who would otherwise go without. From medical and dental care to patient education, emotional support, and even spiritual encouragement, VIM offers whole-person care rooted in compassion. Every appointment is more than a chart or a checklist—it’s a chance to share the love of Christ by extending hope, healing and dignity.
We celebrate how the new clinic building has helped us do that even better than before. With more room to welcome patients and volunteers, and space designed for coordinated care, the past year has been full of growth:
• 803 medical patients received care—16% increase
• 266 dental patients found relief—nearly 79% increase
• 6,859 appointments were provided—a 6% increase
• 42 volunteers gave over 3,500 hours of their time and expertise
Behind each number is a story—like Vicente’s. Before his accident, he worked hard to support his family. But when a serious injury left him unable to walk, therapy seemed out of reach. That’s when he came to VIM. “We’re blessed that this clinic is here in the place where we live,” Vicente shared. With care close to home, he no longer had to travel to San Antonio or San Marcos to search for affordable help. His story is just one of hundreds made possible because the people of Oakwood Church provided this building where healing comes within reach.
We are deeply grateful for the people of Oakwood and every donor, volunteer, and community partner who made this space possible. You have created more than just walls and exam rooms—you’ve created a place where hope is restored.
As we look ahead, our mission continues. The need for accessible, whole-person care is as urgent as ever. That’s why NBCM has launched the Unlock Hope Campaign to expand behavioral health services—ensuring that mental and emotional health are cared for alongside physical health.
And there are so many ways you can be part of this story. You can pray for our patients and providers. You can volunteer your time and skills. You can give generously to help us expand access to care.
Please join us in ensuring that no one in our community has to go without the care they need. Because at VIM, hope isn’t just a word—it’s the presence of Christ at work in every act of care.
