(123rf.com Image)

The City of Columbia played a key role in supporting the grand re-launch of The Free Medical Clinic, a vital community healthcare resource serving uninsured residents in the Midlands. The celebration, held on Monday, May 5, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., marked a new chapter in the Clinic’s mission to improve community health and access to care.

Sponsored by the Leadership Columbia Class of 2025, the event brought together community leaders, volunteers, and city officials to unveil revitalization efforts that will significantly enhance the Clinic’s visibility, accessibility, and infrastructure. Guests were welcomed at the Clinic’s location at 1875 Harden Street, where they enjoyed light refreshments and toured the improved facilities.

The City of Columbia, a proud partner of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce and the Leadership Columbia program, contributed significantly to the success of this initiative. Two City employees — Payton Lang (Office of the Mayor) and Timothy McDowell (Parks and Recreation Department) — served as members of the 2025 Leadership Columbia class, dedicating more than 14 hours each in hands-on volunteer work at the Clinic.

City officials also went above and beyond in their support:

• Councilman Peter Brown facilitated a collaboration with his local business Colite to donate and install a new electrified sign, which now proudly highlights the Free Medical Clinic, Columbia Fire Logistics, and features the City’s new logo.
• Councilwoman Aditi Bussells, who had previously been working with the Clinic, expedited efforts to resurface and improve the Clinic’s parking lot, ensuring safer and more accessible entry for patients and staff.
• Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and the Mayor’s Office provided vital support throughout the project, including coordination assistance and donations of event equipment such as chairs, tables, and a podium. The Mayor also personally addressed the Leadership Columbia Class during two key class days.

Additional support came from various City departments:

• Public Works staff assisted in electrifying and installing the new signage and coordinating the parking lot resurfacing.
• Columbia Fire Department provided logistical support on multiple occasions, from helping clean up debris and hanging signage to keeping volunteers hydrated during their service hours.

The City of Columbia congratulated the Leadership Columbia Class of 2025 for their impactful efforts and remains committed to supporting initiatives that uplift the health and well-being of all residents.