Our Humble Beginnings

LifeLong Medical Care’s story began more than 35 years ago with the unwavering belief that continues to guide the organization—that all people have the right to receive the healthcare and support they need. The year was 1976, in Berkeley, California, where the senior population faced a growing, unmet need for health services. Enter a small group of Gray Panthers, whose members created an innovative solution—a milestone in elder care—the Over 60 Health Center.

Spreading Our Mission

National visibility continued to surge during this time as television stations nationwide aired LifeLong public service announcements.  LifeLong Medical Care has earned widespread recognition for creative approaches to community health challenges, including the needs of the low-income elderly, people with disabilities, and high risk pregnant women.  Other health centers look to LifeLong’s model as they develop their services for these patients. We continuously advocate for public policy improvements related to quality care access, the reduction of health disparities, and expanded home and community based care.

LifeLong Today

Our first health center has evolved to become LifeLong Medical Care, a dynamic nonprofit community organization with nine locations, delivering quality health services for all ages. LifeLong is one of Alameda County’s primary safety net providers of medical, dental, and social services. In 2010, LifeLong provided approximately 170,000 health care visits to over 22,000 underserved individuals, many with complex health conditions.