Founding Vision: A Commitment to Serving Delaware
The Hope Medical Dental Clinic was founded in 2003 by Dr. Vincenta G. Marquez, along with a group of physicians from the Filipino Medical Association. After an annual medical mission trip abroad, Dr. Marquez had an idea: “Why not do the same thing here in Delaware?” She partnered with Drs. Venerando J. Maximo, Raphael Zaragoza, Jose Paminuan, and Basilio Bautista to find the clinic's first home at the Modern Maturity Center (MMC).
In the early days, MMC generously provided a small storage space, which was converted into a reception area and exam rooms, divided by curtains. Patients received free medications, mostly donated by local physicians and pharmaceutical representatives. In 2005, after a successful fundraising campaign, MMC opened the Medical Arts Building, which became the clinic’s permanent home.
Expanding Care: From Humble Beginnings to Lasting Impact
In 2007, Dr. Thomas Mercer joined the Hope Medical Dental Clinic, expanding its services to include dental care. Under his leadership, the dental clinic grew beyond basic dental services, meeting the increasing demand for free dental care.
Today, the Hope Medical Dental Clinic honors its founders' commitment to providing access to high-quality, free medical and dental care for the uninsured and medically underserved. As the only free medical and dental clinic in Delaware, the clinic serves individuals who are often forced to choose between basic necessities like food and rent, and their healthcare needs. We strive to fill critical gaps in healthcare, improve the quality of life, and alleviate the strain on community resources.
Our Mission: Healthcare as a Right for All
The mission of the Hope Medical Dental Clinic is to promote the health and well-being of adults by providing the highest quality of primary medical and dental care to medically underserved and uninsured individuals, at no cost. We are committed to expanding the healthcare safety net for marginalized communities through collaborations and partnerships within our local community. The belief that healthcare is a right for all remains the foundation of the clinic.
With a dedicated team of volunteers and the continued support of donors, we are excited to enter the next chapter of the clinic's journey, ensuring that we can continue to serve generations to come.
Leadership
Douglas L. Ditty, DMD, MD
Board President
Michelle Devern, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Secretary
Jennifer Ewald
Treasurer
Jennifer Cohan
Board Member
Thomas W. Mercer, D.D.S.
Board Member
Keisha Morris
Board Member
Daniel Condoluci-Smith
Executive Director