Good News Clinics honors Dr. R. D. Nickels

GAINESVILLE – Good News Clinics (GNC), the largest free medical and dental clinic in Georgia, recently recognized Dr. R. D. “Bud” Nickels with the Sam Poole Volunteer of the Year Award at its annual fundraising dinner held in the First Baptist Church Banquet Hall.

The award which is named in honor of the late Dr. Sam Poole who served as GNC volunteer medical director for seven years, is given annually and presented by GNC advisory board member Dr. David Westfall to a GNC volunteer for his or her dedication, caring support, and long-term volunteer service to the Clinics.

“Bud Nickels has faithfully volunteered at the dental clinic since it opened and worked six days each month while he was actively practicing dentistry. After retirement he increased his volunteer effort to two days a week,” said Westfall. “He became an adjunct faculty member for the Dental College, Georgia Health and Sciences University so that he can work with dental students who come to GNC during their community health rotation. When the dental clinic has a last minute cancellation, he often steps up to cover the shift. Bud serves with a humble, generous heart and epitomizes the spirit of the Dr. Sam Poole award.”

Local physicians once again shared their musical talents to entertain a record 400+ attendees at the dinner which has raised over $60,000 this year. The performers were: Drs. John Darden, Cathy Finch, Mike Gottsman, Jack Griffeth, Bill Hallowes, Tim Scully with Fowl Play, and Tennent Slack, as well as Barbara Griffeth, Fred Mulkey, Allen Nivens and Chris Wright.

Through the community’s support, the success of this event has helped Good News Clinics meet the recent Hope2Hall fundraising challenge to raise $80,000 and receive a matching grant for the same amount. These funds help support annual operating expenses that will enable GNC volunteer physicians, dentists and mid-level providers the opportunity to continue to serve those in need.

The mission of Good News Clinics is to provide free primary medical care, specialty care referrals, and dental care services to uninsured Hall County residents who cannot afford to pay for health care. These services are made possible through the volunteer service of physicians, dentists, and mid-level providers from the local medical community, as well as volunteer efforts from others in the community and charitable contributions from churches, foundations, businesses, and individuals. To inquire about health care services, volunteering or donating to Good News Clinics, call 770-297-5040 or visit www.goodnewsclinics.org.


Link: Good News Clinics