​Grantee Highlight: A Mission of Faith - The Lackey Clinic Story

Lackey Clinic CEO, Larry Trumbore, Dr. Jill Cottel, Medical Director and Adelia Thompson.

The heart of Lackey Clinic’s mission is saving lives. Just ask former patient Paula Darden, who arrived desperate for help. She couldn't afford medicine, and a persistent limp was getting worse. What she found was more than just a prescription.

Lackey Clinic offered Paula a full range of services—medical, dental, vision, and orthopedic care—all under one roof. Just as important was the compassionate, whole-person approach from her provider and the spiritual care team, who supported her through the profound loss of her daughter. This holistic care made 

 Paula feel like family, and she credits the clinic with saving her life.

​The clinic's mission is rooted in faith. On April 20, 1995, co-founders Jim and Cooka Shaw answered the call from Matthew 25:40: "In as much as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me." They started a mission to provide compassionate healthcare to the medically disadvantaged. As the Shaws reflect, “It has truly been God’s Miracle that the Clinic has evolved from three volunteers in a church Sunday school room years ago to a full-service medical and dental facility today.”

For 30 years, Lackey Clinic has provided free healthcare to uninsured adults in Virginia. What began in a small church has grown into a statewide network using telehealth and virtual care to serve patients across 79 counties. The numbers speak for themselves. In the last year, 327 volunteers donated 14,245 hours, valued at over $467,724. The clinic also provided $9.5 million in free medications and secured $5 million in charity care from local hospitals. This transformative work is being celebrated at their 30th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, September 20th, an evening dedicated to their mission.​​

Lackey Clinic not only treats patients but also trains the next generation of healthcare professionals. Students from medical, pharmacy, and dental schools volunteer, creating a sustainable foundation for future healthcare services. Maria and Mike Brooks, current and former board members who have provided much of their support through their PCF donor advised fund say they "have seen firsthand the caring and compassionate hearts of ​​​staff and volunteers. They strive to give their best, while offering quality, holistic care that contributes to meaningful changes in individuals’ lives."

Patients are the working class who earn too much to qualify for Virginia Medicaid but not enough to afford quality insurance.

The Peninsula Community Foundation (PCF) is honored to partner in this work. PCF donors have long recognized the clinic's critical role, providing consistent support. The partnership, including Lackey Clinic's 12 year participation in PCF’s Give Local 757 giving day, has helped raise thousands of dollars and forge invaluable relationships according to Kim Spencer, Lackey’s Director of Resource Development stating, “This collaboration is a powerful example of how a community foundation can amplify the work of a dedicated nonprofit, helping Lackey Clinic build a healthier community for everyone.”​​

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