Steve Longo and Welid Farhat sampled the cheese board and artichoke appetizers, joining a group of friends and colleagues gathered to support Kevin’s Community Center’s (KCC) annual fundraiser.

The Music, Merlot, and Mums attendees filled the two main dining rooms at Newtown Country Club on the evening of December 8, while the South Lake Jazz Trio entertained. Attentive country club staff offered appetizers to the many guests, who were sampling wines from several vendors, or bidding on a silent auction of gift baskets from local businesses.

Z. Michael Taweh, MD, and founder and president of Kevin’s Community Center, wrote a brief thank you letter to supporters that announces the kick-off the clinic’s 18th year “of offering free healthcare to our neighbors most in need and also providing outreach for prevention of medical problems.”

He wrote that the center goes about its “necessary business of funding the KCC mission to provide access to quality healthcare to residents over the age of 18 who are uninsured or underinsured and who have limited financial resources… Be assured of our gratitude and our commitment to always use your gifts prudently and in the best interest of our patients.”

As the evening came to an end and the raffle winners received their baskets, Dr Taweh spoke, saying, “I’m humbled. You’ve been supporters from the beginning,” and thanked his many volunteers.

He dedicated the evening to the late specialist, volunteer physician, and “ardent supporter,” Dr Donald Gordon, handing Dr Gordon’s wife, Janine, a plaque.

Dr Gordon “was a kind soul who put the needs of others before his own,” Dr Taweh said.

Learn more about KCC at kevinscommunitycenter.org.