Mission Health Lexington: A Legacy of Care and Growth

For two decades, Mission Health Lexington has provided free medical, dental, vision and pharmacy services to uninsured residents of Fayette County. What began as a grassroots effort inspired by a church mission trip has evolved into a full-service healthcare clinic, ensuring that those in need receive lifesaving care without financial barriers.

At the heart of Mission Health Lexington is a commitment to treating chronic conditions, keeping patients out of emergency rooms, and providing holistic, patient-centered care. Unlike traditional clinics, Mission Health Lexington’s volunteer healthcare providers take their time, often spending up to an hour with each patient. This model allows for deeper relationships and a more comprehensive understanding of patients’ needs, from medical concerns to the social and economic factors affecting their health.

Despite operating on a lean budget of approximately $500,000 per year, Mission Health Lexington has steadily expanded, thanks to community support, grant funding and a growing endowment. The clinic recently increased its full-time staff from one to three, allowing it to enhance services, including hiring bilingual staff to better serve its Spanish-speaking patients.

The Power of Endowment

Mission Health Lexington’s endowment began in 2013 as a prize awarded during the GoodGiving Challenge. While initially a modest sum, it caught the attention of a generous donor looking to take advantage of Endow Kentucky Tax Credits. Year after year, that donor maximized the available tax benefits, and with an assist from other donors, this important funding source has steadily grown to its current balance of $600,000.

For Executive Director Abby Pliszka, financial sustainability is key. “When I started, one grant made up 35% of our income,” she explains. “I knew we had to diversify.” Today, the endowment provides a reliable funding stream that helps bridge financial gaps, especially as traditional funding sources shift.

Abby sees the endowment as more than just a financial asset—it’s a testament to the community’s belief in Mission Health Lexington’s future. “An endowment gift is special because it supports both today’s needs and tomorrow’s growth. It’s an investment in the long-term health of our patients and our organization.”

Transforming Lives

The impact of Mission Health Lexington is best seen through its patients. One of the clinic’s success stories involves a diabetic patient who enrolled in its diabetes management program. With guidance from a case manager, he adopted lifestyle changes, adhered to his medication plan and ultimately lost enough weight to stop needing insulin. When he no longer required his prescriptions, he returned to the clinic—not as a patient, but to donate his remaining medication for someone else in need.

Looking Ahead

As Mission Health Lexington moves into its next chapter, the clinic remains focused on strengthening existing services while exploring new opportunities. Abby dreams of adding a therapist to provide much-needed mental health support and is also working to secure funding for hearing aids, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.

Financially, the clinic continues to seek sustainable funding sources, and the endowment will play a crucial role in that stability. “If you’re thinking about starting an endowment for your nonprofit, do it,” Abby advises. “All it takes is one passionate donor, and you could find yourself with a $50,000 gift every year. Providing supporters with multiple ways to contribute—whether through volunteering, attending events, or endowment gifts—ensures long-term growth.”

For those looking to support Mission Health Lexington, opportunities abound—from volunteering as a medical professional to contributing to the endowment. Every gift, whether of time, treasure or talent, strengthens the clinic’s ability to provide compassionate care to those who need it most.

To learn more about how you can support Mission Health Lexington, visit missionhealthlex.org.

To get started supporting an endowment, or establishing your own, contact Scott Fitzpatrick.