Open Arms Free Clinic in Walworth County

In this episode...

• 2:53 - Numbers don’t lie 📊
• 9:50 - A moving story 📖
• 13:03 - Dental has entered the chat 🦷
• 22:36 - Here is how you can help 🤝
• 25:31 - What gets Sarah emotional? 😢
• 28:35 - Surprise! 🎉
• 31:51 - New partnerships mean more resources 💼

At Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Elkhorn, we're more than just cars; we're about community. Today, we're shining a spotlight on an incredible part of our local fabric—the Open Arms Free Clinic in Elkhorn, WI. 

Established in 2012, this clinic represents the heartbeat of Walworth County, providing much-needed medical, dental, and behavioral health services to the uninsured and underprivileged residents.

Open Arms Free Clinic operates with a mission that resonates deeply with all of us: offering health and wellness support to those who lack insurance and live under financial duress. The clinic’s dedication ensures that every patient receives the respect, dignity, and quality care they deserve, mirroring the care we'd all want for our own families.

It all started with a wish and a community's response. Father Dan Sanders, while receiving a Citizen of the Year award, voiced a desire to see a free clinic in Walworth County. His call to action sparked a movement, leading to the formation of Open Arms Free Clinic. 

Thanks to the dedication of retired healthcare professionals and a warm community response, the clinic opened its doors to provide no-cost primary care and manage chronic diseases for those in need.

The clinic is a testament to the power of volunteerism, with over 12,000 volunteer hours logged annually. By 2015, Open Arms had grown to include a paid Executive Director to help coordinate the growing demand and ensure consistent care delivery. This expansion underscores the community's commitment to sustainable healthcare for everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

Our very own Jose Cano from Kunes Chevrolet Cadillac of Delavan had the pleasure of driving around in a 2024 Chevrolet Blazer with Sarah Nichols, the Executive Director of Open Arms Free Clinic. During their ride, Sarah shared incredible stories from the clinic's journey, from its humble beginnings in a small strip mall location to becoming a cornerstone for health in Walworth County.

Since its inception, Open Arms Free Clinic has enrolled thousands of patients, offering services that go beyond just healthcare.

From the first patient enrolled in November 2012 to ongoing initiatives, the clinic provides primary medical care, dental services, medications, and even helps with Medicare applications and health insurance navigation. Each service is crucial, offering lifelines to those who otherwise would face neglect.

Support for Open Arms Free Clinic comes from the heart and generosity of people like you. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, every little bit helps amplify their capacity to serve. Donations are especially impactful, with every dollar turning into ten dollars’ worth of medicine.

Sarah recalls emotional moments that highlight the clinic's profound impact, such as a patient who cried tears of relief upon learning she could receive insulin free of charge. These stories are daily reminders of the critical role the clinic plays in the lives of many.

As we continue to support and engage with vital institutions like Open Arms Free Clinic, we reflect on how essential services like these shape the health and well-being of our community. 

Join us in supporting their mission, either by participating in upcoming events like their annual golf outing and their birthday gala, or by contributing to their ongoing efforts to provide compassionate care.

At Kunes Auto Group, we believe in driving positive change, both on and off the road. Let's rally together to keep the wheels of hope and health moving forward for everyone in Walworth County.

For those inspired to contribute or learn more about the Open Arms Free Clinic, please visit their website or contact them directly to see how you can make a difference. Together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes without the care they need.