Concordia and RAM Rejoin Forces for Butler Clinic

April is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize and celebrate individuals whose selfless service to others strengthen and impact our communities. At Concordia, volunteerism and community outreach are deeply rooted in our 144-year-old ministry and sustained by our residents, employees, supporters and friends who carry out our mission every day. This year, we are excited to again join forces with Remote Area Medical® (RAM) to bring a free medical, dental and vision walk-in clinic to Butler, Pa., on Nov. 8 – 9, 2025 at Butler Intermediate High School.

Related: How Concodia’s Volunteers Support Our Mission

Founded in 1985, RAM is a non-profit provider of pop-up medical clinics delivering free dental, vision and medical care to underserved and uninsured individuals. No ID is required by the patient nor are they asked to provide their income level, insurance status or social security number at any point.

RAM was first introduced to Butler County in November 2023 when Lynn McKinnis, physical therapist for Concordia Visiting Nurses, spearheaded the initiative to bring free healthcare to her local community. The clinic served over 330 adults and children who received $183,000 in free healthcare that included medical exams, glasses made on-site and dental services ranging from cleanings to extractions.

With renewed support from organizations like the Center for Community Resources, the Jean B. Purvis Community Health Center, Butler Collaborative for Families and numerous local churches, businesses, civic groups and social service organizations, the clinic reflects what’s possible when a community comes together in service. Many volunteers from the first clinic are returning, taking on new roles that highlight their growth, leadership and dedication to service. Two of those remarkable individuals are Sue Daniels and Aleah Hall.

From Shuttle Driver to Volunteer Leader: Sue Daniels’ Story

Sue Daniels, a retired HR manager for Concordia’s Home and Community Services, volunteered as a shuttle driver during the 2023 clinic, transporting volunteers and providers from the parking lot to the clinic’s doors. She recalls being surprised by the sheer scale of need in her own community.

“I didn’t realize how many people in our community needed medical care,” she said. “I also didn’t realize how big of an operation RAM was and how providers will travel from all over the country to serve at their clinics.”

Now in retirement, Sue’s stepping up to manage food coordination for hundreds of volunteers, partnering with churches and local organizations to keep everyone nourished throughout the weekend.

“If I can step up and do something to make something better for somebody else, I’m in,” she said. “Volunteering keeps me active and involved. It’s rewarding—and it will keep you going.”

Growing into Leadership: Aleah Hall’s Journey

At the 2023 free health clinic, Aleah Hall served in the dental exit area, logging procedures and offering support to patients, many of whom were young children.

“Dozens of kids came skipping out of the dental area… you’d never know they had a tooth pulled,” she recalled. “A need was clearly met, and it felt good to make a difference.”

This year, Aleah returns as an apprentice, working alongside Lynn, who serves as RAM Community Host Leader. A lifelong volunteer and member of St. Luke Lutheran Church, Aleah sees her participation as a reflection of her faith and her church’s mission to “gather, grow and go.”

“To me, serving is the best way to show other people the love of Jesus,” she said. “We’ve gathered together, we’ve grown in the love and grace and now we’re going to spread the same message with RAM.”

Vision Realized: Lynn McKinnis Reflects on the Movement

When Lynn first envisioned bringing Remote Area Medical® (RAM) to Butler, she knew it would require more than just medical equipment and volunteers – it would take a united community.

For her, the 2023 clinic taught her the power of collaboration. With the first clinic under her belt, she looks forward to “unification of all the good will.”

“It is magnified due to community members having had personal experience of participating in the past,” she said.

With the clinic’s return, Lynn sees a shift in momentum – more people and partners are reaching out to her first to get involved.

“People volunteering before being asked is simply the best change this time around,” she said.

Related: Concordia Supports Free Health Clinic in Butler: Volunteers Needed!

Lynn’s hopes for the future remain both ambitious and grounded in community. “We have to acknowledge that anyone can fall through the cracks. RAM brings value to any community,” she said.

Looking Ahead: Join the Mission

With new volunteers, deeper community partnerships and renewed momentum, the 2025 RAM clinic is becoming even more impactful. And there’s room for you.

Whether you’re a medical professional, a church member, a retiree or simply someone with a heart to serve – there’s a place for everyone at RAM.

“You don’t have to be a medical professional,” Aleah said. “You just have to be willing to volunteer. The people you meet make an impact on you.”

To learn more or to register to volunteer for the free medical clinic, visit ramusa.org and select the Butler, PA 2025 clinic under the “Volunteer” tab.