On Friday, September 7, Westside Future Fund hosted its 16th Transform Westside Summit, with opening remarks by Greg Washington of City of Refuge and the featured presentation given by The Good Samaritan Health Center’s founder and president, Dr. Bill Warren, and its chief operating officer, Breanna Lathrop.

Washington shared his personal history of redemption that included a 20-year jail sentence for drug trafficking and his subsequent positive life changes marked by career opportunities at The Home Depot and finally at City of Refuge. Washington emphasized the effect that his affirmations have had on his life and why he has been passionate about working as a youth leader and with individuals returning to their communities after time in incarceration.

Washington relishes the opportunity to be a true Westside change agent in an effort to rebuild and revitalize these beloved neighborhoods.

The Good Samaritan Health Center provides health care services for people who either do not have health care or have difficulty paying full price for health services.

Founded in 1998, “Good Sam” is celebrating its 20th year of service and has been working on the Westside for the last nine years in support of its mission: “spreading Christ’s love for quality healthcare for those in need.”

In his remarks, Dr. Bill Warren chronicled his history as an Atlanta native and the series of foundational events that sparked his idea to form Good Samaritan, in addition to outlining the institution’s approach to “one-stop” affordable medical shopping—providing doctors, dentists, mental health workers, health educators, urban gardening and more—in a single location.

Breanna Lathrop followed Warren’s remarks, shedding more light on the organization’s approach to generating improved health outcomes in the Westside communities specifically, both as a provider and collaborator, in addition to highlighting targeted programs and initiatives residents can take advantage of on a consistent basis.

Watch the full Summit presentation below.