Congratulations! Rising Stars, Lasting Impact: Celebrating Our Volunteers’ Next Chapters

At the Clearwater Free Clinic, every volunteer who walks through our doors brings unique talents—and leaves with new skills, lifelong friendships, and an abiding passion for community health. Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight four remarkable team members who are graduating or advancing to the next stage of their professional journeys. Their accomplishments remind us that the Clinic is not only a place of healing but also a training ground for the compassionate leaders our communities need.

Divya Arora — Future M.D.

Big congratulations to Divya Arora, our incredible Healthy Living intern, on her acceptance to Florida State University’s College of Medicine! Divya elevated our Diabetic and Pre-Diabetic Program with tireless research support, patient coaching, and a knack for weaving empathy into every conversation. While her reassuring smile will be missed in the Clinic hallway, we have no doubt she’ll continue to champion preventative care on a larger stage.

Shawn Fox — Master of Social Work

Join us in applauding Shawn Fox, who just earned his MSW from the University of South Florida. As an integral member of our Behavioral Health team, Shawn led men’s health groups, facilitated wellness workshops, and offered one-on-one counseling with genuine warmth. His steady presence has helped dozens of patients navigate life’s toughest moments; we’re grateful for his service and excited to see where his clinical social-work career takes him. While his distinct laugh echoing the hallways will fade, his impact on our patients will not.

Amy Stanley — Pharmacist & UF Graduate

Amy Stanley—dedicated pharmacist, medication-room volunteer, and now a proud graduate of the University of Florida’s College of Medicine—deserves a standing ovation. Amy’s expertise ensured our patients had safe, affordable access to life-saving prescriptions. Beyond dispensing medications, she educated patients on adherence, side effects, and lifestyle changes, turning each interaction into a mini-wellness lesson. We can’t wait to watch Amy expand her impact in the broader medical world.

Sava Douridas — Future D.O.

Last, but certainly not least, a huge round of applause for Sava Douridas, recently accepted into Nova Southeastern University’s Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program! Sava has been a shining example of compassion and leadership at the Clinic—serving as a trusted scribe, mentor to countless young volunteers, and always going the extra mile for patients. His dedication earned him the 2023 Above & Beyond Award at our Volunteer Luncheon. We’re thrilled to see Sava take the next step toward becoming an outstanding physician, and we know he’ll carry the Clinic’s spirit of service wherever he goes.

Why Their Success Matters

When volunteers grow, everyone wins. Divya, Shawn, Amy, and Sava leave with:

  1. Hands-on clinical experience that textbooks alone can’t provide.

  2. A deep understanding of health inequities faced by uninsured neighbors.

  3. A lifelong commitment to service—the hallmark of every Clearwater Free Clinic alumnus.

Their journeys prove that investing time in community health not only uplifts patients but also shapes exceptional professionals.

Keep the Momentum Going

  • Current volunteers: Let these stories inspire you to dive deeper—ask about shadowing a new specialty or joining a special project. Tell your friends about your experience volunteering or bring them by for a tour.

  • Prospective volunteers: Ready to grow while giving back? Apply here to join a team dedicated to keeping Pinellas County well.

  • Alumni: Share your milestones with us—tag Clearwater Free Clinic on social or email hello@clearwaterfreeclinic.org so we can celebrate you, too!

To Divya, Shawn, Amy, Sava, and every volunteer pushing boundaries: thank you for lighting the way forward. Your compassion and drive embody our mission, and we’re honored to be part of your story. We wish you all success in the next chapter and hope you’ll come visit us soon!

Next
Next

Keep Them Well