A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO | SHERRY PACE, MBA | | |
The June 20th Summer Solstice marked the longest day of the year—a turning point for the new season. At Chicago Family Health Center, we see this moment not just as a seasonal shift, but as an opportunity to refocus on wellness, preparation, and care.
As temperatures rise, so do the risks—especially for those managing chronic conditions, living without air conditioning, or working long hours outdoors. That’s why our team is leaning into summer with urgency and intention. We're checking in on our patients, encouraging hydration and sun safety, and helping families schedule overdue checkups and vaccinations while school’s out.
This season also brings unique opportunities. Longer days and community events give us more chances to reach people where they are—at parks, festivals, local storefronts—to offer screenings, guidance, and support in a trusted, familiar way.
But we know that not everyone experiences summer equally. The heat often hits hardest in under-resourced neighborhoods. That's why we remain committed to addressing the gaps by partnering with local groups to connect people with cooling resources, nutritious food, and timely medical care.
Summer is a season of possibility, but it also requires preparation. We’re here to ensure our communities can enjoy it in good health—and with peace of mind.
Thank you for being part of that mission.
Keep reading for a board member spotlight, new fundraising events and more.
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Sherry Pace, MBA
Chief Executive Officer
Chicago Family Health Center
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This month, we shine a light on Fr. Mark Brummel, CMF, a founding board member of Chicago Family Health Center and one of the original voices behind our mission to bring quality health care to South Chicago. Now serving as an Emeritus Director, Fr. Brummel’s impact is woven into the very foundation of CFHC.
His journey began while serving at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church as a Claretian Missionary. Moved by the urgent need for accessible care in the community, Fr. Brummel worked with fellow Claretians and neighbors to open a small neighborhood clinic.
“From that modest beginning, we have seen tremendous growth and wonderful medical services now offered to many more people—especially women and children,” he reflects. “I felt it an honor to serve here for over 40 years.”
Throughout his decades of board service, Fr. Brummel remained a steady advocate for health equity, bearing witness to CFHC’s evolution through public health crises, neighborhood transformations, and the ongoing expansion of services.
“CFHC has been recognized as essential in the neighborhoods it serves,” he said. “They are always looking for better ways to serve everyone in the community.”
Today, he continues to champion the mission as an Emeritus Director, calling on others to learn more and get involved.
“CFHC is a neighborhood treasure that deserves support. Its mission is to provide quality and affordable health for all as a human right.”
We thank Fr. Brummel for his vision, leadership, and unwavering belief in the power of community care.
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CFHC Chief Medical Officer Joins Roseland Panel on Community Healing
CFHC Chief Medical Officer, Chidninma Osineme, MD FAAFP recently served on a panel discussion with the Heal Collaborative at Lilydale First Baptist Church in the Roseland neighborhood. She joined leaders from the South Side YMCA, Chicago Housing Authority and Roseland Christian Ministries to address how communities thrive with health services, education, resources and support. CFHC is proud to partner with Heal Collaborative to spearhead educational events that advocate for our community.
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Opioid Overdose Spike During Heat Wave in Chicago
Chicago’s first opioid-overdose “red alert” of the year was triggered recently, with more than 37 overdose incidents reported amid a heat wave—a number that meets the city's emergency threshold.
Local health officials noted a clear link between soaring temperatures and increased overdoses. Deputy Commissioner Miao Jenny Hua of the Chicago Department of Public Health explained that “as the weather warms up, we see, on average, more overdoses.” Overdoses were particularly concentrated in outdoor locations on the West Side, including Humboldt Park.
At Chicago Family Health Center, we’re deeply aware of how heat and the evolving substance use landscape intersect. That’s why CFHC provides Narcan and comprehensive support for substance use disorder—including free supplies, training, and access to treatment resources. Our commitment is to keep our community equipped, informed, and safe—no matter the season.
Anyone needing Narcan, drug testing strips and other substance use resources can connect with our Behavioral Health department by calling 773-768-5000.
| | We have several health education events happening in the coming weeks. If you know someone who may benefit, please share this information with them. | | |
August 8, 2025 1-4 p.m. - Annual Back-to-School Health Fair
Get ready for a healthy school year! As part of National Health Center Week, our annual Back to School Health Fair will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at our South Chicago Clinic, 9119 S. Exchange Ave.
Discover essential health services, fun activities, and free giveaways to kickstart the upcoming school year! From health screenings to nutrition and mental health resources, we’ve got everything you need to ensure your family is ready for a healthy return to school.
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August 8, 2025 4:30-6 p.m. - You're the Heart of Health: A Celebration of Community Partnership
We invite you to an evening of gratitude and connection as we recognize the community partners who help power our mission. From healthcare and housing to behavioral health, education, and beyond—your work helps build a healthier South Side.
Join us for light refreshments, networking with fellow community changemakers, and a guided tour of our South Chicago site.
This event conducted in partnership with National Health Center Week.
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October 4 - 2025 Gala | Healing Starts Here: A Prescription for Success
Good health doesn’t stop at the exam room door. That’s why this year’s Healing Hands Gala is dedicated to a simple but powerful truth: a prescription is only as effective as a patient’s ability to fill it.
On the South Side, too many families are losing easy access to medications—not because they don’t have a doctor, but because nearby pharmacies have closed, treatment plans go unfinished, and chronic conditions remain unmanaged. This year’s gala focuses on solving that gap.
| | SUPPORT COMMUNITY HEALTH, YOUR WAY | | |
There are many ways to make a lasting impact through Chicago Family Health Center:
Sponsor Our Back-to-School Health Fair
Help us provide school physicals, dental exams, and wellness resources to hundreds of families. Your support ensures kids start the school year healthy and ready to learn.
Partner with Us for the Healing Hands Gala
Showcase your organization’s commitment to health equity by sponsoring our signature annual event. Sponsorships offer meaningful visibility while supporting critical health services.
Become a Monthly Donor
Join our community of sustaining supporters. A recurring gift, no matter the amount, helps us plan ahead and continue offering accessible, high-quality care year-round. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger Chicago.
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