Every August, communities across the United States come together to honor National Health Center Week—a time to recognize and celebrate the profound impact that health centers have had, and continue to have, on the health and wellbeing of our nation. This year, the theme “Past, Present, Future: 60 Years of Improving Our Nation’s Health” invites us to reflect on six decades of dedication, innovation, and service, while looking toward the promise of tomorrow.
The Roots: A Movement Born From Necessity
The story of community health centers begins in the early 1960s, where access to healthcare was a privilege, not a right. In 1965, the first community health centers opened their doors in Boston, Massachusetts and Mound Bayou, Mississippi, fueled by a bold vision: to provide comprehensive, accessible, and affordable care for all—regardless of income, insurance status, or background.
These pioneers understood that health was more than the absence of disease; it was deeply connected to social and economic factors. Health centers offered not only medical care, but also nutrition assistance, health education, and support for families. Their holistic model bridged gaps in the system, planted the seeds of health equity, and inspired a nationwide movement.
The Present: Pillars of Community Wellness
Today, almost 1,500 health center organizations serve over 32.5 million people at nearly 16,000 service delivery sites—urban, rural, frontier, and everywhere in between. Health centers have become trusted pillars in their communities, providing primary care, dental services, mental health support, and preventive care. Their patients include the uninsured, underinsured, agricultural workers, people experiencing homelessness, and veterans.
The Future: Innovation and Opportunity
As we celebrate 60 years of progress, we also look to the horizon. Despite funding uncertainties, the future of health centers is bright. Shaped by technological advancements, integrated care models, and a focus on addressing health-related social needs, health centers continue to drive innovation in care delivery and quality improvement. From leveraging electronic health records and expanding behavioral health services to tackling food insecurity and housing instability, health centers are poised to lead a new era of community wellness.
The next generation of health center leaders will build on this legacy, fostering partnerships with local organizations, schools, and public health agencies. They will champion health equity, cultural competence, and inclusivity. And, as our nation continues to diversify and evolve, health centers will remain steadfast in their mission: to deliver high-quality care to all who need it.
A Call to Celebrate and Support
National Health Center Week is more than a celebration; it is an invitation—to learn about the impact of health centers, to honor the dedicated professionals and volunteers who make their work possible, and to advocate for policies that ensure their sustainability and growth.
Join us in celebrating the past, present, and future of health centers. Whether you are a patient, a provider, a community member, or an ally, your voice matters. Together, we can ensure that health centers continue to thrive for another 60 years and beyond—improving not only our nation’s health, but the very heart of our communities.
Happy National Health Center Week!
