An Evening of Gratitude

Evening Highlights

The program commenced with cocktails in the India Center’s Kota Auditorium. Guests were treated to musical selections by guitarist Jose Allende.

Formal remarks began at 6:30 PM in the Navani Wing. The evening featured a welcome by Secretary & CIO Ashish Cowlagi, followed by the President’s Remarks delivered by David Runyan. The formal segment also included special recognitions and a Vote of Thanks by Vice President Lisa Izzo. Dinner and dessert were accompanied by musical guest 'the master of folk' John Fitz.

The Collaborative’s Impact 

In 2025 alone, the WFCC programs cared for more than 7,000 individuals. President David Runyan emphasized that the true impact goes beyond statistics, reflecting deeply human stories—whether of a young family struggling, a new arrival navigating the system, or a neighbor facing housing insecurity and loss of health insurance. Patients found dignity, empathy, hope, and a reminder that they were not alone within the clinics.

The Evening of Gratitude was a celebration of the volunteers and donors for the WFCC , who make the  six free medical programs and a free eye care program possible. 

The evening highlighted the fact that the WFCC member programs are 100% Volunteer-Driven, operating solely with dedicated volunteer staff, and are 100% Free, relying entirely on grants and private donations. The strength of the WFCC is drawn from a collaboration supported operationally by seven host organizations, four universities, a world-class healthcare system in UMass Memorial Health, and hundreds of professional volunteers. It was noted that over 270 caregivers and other volunteers commit their time and expertise each week, forming the heart of the WFCC.

Call for Enduring Resources

In his address, WFCC President David Runyan stressed that the organization’s mission is sustained only because of its supporters. While expressing gratitude for the countless acts of kindness, service, and generosity that have defined the WFCC’s work, President Runyan highlighted the critical need for continued resources.

He underscored that donors, through their generosity, "ensure that these efforts have the resources to endure and grow". The Evening of Gratitude served as a powerful reminder that continued profound generosity and unwavering commitment are essential to upholding the shared belief that health care is a fundamental right that must be accessible to all.

Acknowledging Sponsors and Student Volunteers

The WFCC gratefully acknowledged the organizations and individuals whose contributions made the program possible. 

These included Platinum sponsor  UMass Memorial Health, venue sponsor India Society of Worcester, Gold Sponsors Unibank ;  Silver sponsors Berkshire Bank & Cornerstone bank, and individual sponsors Dr. Sahdev Passey, Dr. Dale MaGee, Lynn Eckhert & Louis Fazen (In Honor of Drs. Lochery and Dr. Passey), Center for Health Impact

Additionally, the Worcester Free Care Collaborative Student Organization was recognized for its vital role. This organization is one of the largest student groups at UMass Chan Medical School, with almost 100 students volunteering across all WFCC Medical Programs each year and training the incoming batch of passionate volunteers.

Event Pictures

Silver Sponsors 

Individual Sponsors

• Dr. Sahdev Passey

• Dr. B. Dale Magee and Mrs. Melanie Magee

• Lynn Eckhert & Louis Fazen (In Honor of Drs. Lochery and Dr. Passey)

• Center for Health Impact

To celebrate the volunteers and donors who make the WFCC medical programs possible, we are organizing an evening of heartfelt thanks, refreshments, and meaningful moments. 

An Evening of Gratitude
on Sep 7th, 2025,  5:30 PM
at the India Center in Shrewsbury

This event will feature our valued volunteers, donors, and select dignitaries including state and local policymakers and leaders. 

Thank You in advance for supporting the Free Medical Programs in Worcester!