Healthcare Network Celebrates First Major Gift for Orangetree Health Center

Longtime donor Jerry Nichols generously supports Healthcare Network’s vision to make

affordable primary medical care accessible to everyone

Naples philanthropist Jerry Nichols makes the first major donation to Healthcare Network’s capital campaign. The generous contribution will support the construction of the organization’s new 20,000-square-foot health center in the Orangetree area of Golden Gate Estates, ensuring essential access to affordable healthcare for the community.

For many years, Nichols has been a dedicated supporter, making substantial contributions to various Healthcare Network programs and capital projects. Notable projects include the establishment of Nichols Pediatrics located in the YMCA of Collier County and the Nichols Community Health Center, a 51,000-square-feet comprehensive health center that opened in Golden Gate in June 2020.

“I believe healthcare is vital to keeping any community thriving,” said donor Jerry Nichols.“ Everyone should have access to essential primary care services. Supporting the construction of the new health center means that Orangetree residents, including vulnerable children and seniors, have access to affordable and comprehensive care without needing to leave their own community.”

“The Orangetree area has grown over 75% in the last several years which makes the lack of healthcare services alarming,” said Jamie Ulmer (FEATURED PHOTO), Healthcare Network president and CEO. “Jerry’s continued support of our mission is a testament to his generosity and commitment to making Collier County a healthier place for everyone.”

Located in northeastern Collier County, between Ave Maria and Golden Gate, the new health center is projected to provide care to nearly 30,000 patients in its first year. The array of comprehensive services will include pediatrics, adult and senior care, obstetrics and gynecology, dental care and behavioral health counseling as well as a drive-thru pharmacy.

Earlier this year, Healthcare Network received $1.75 million in appropriation funds from the state, sponsored by Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and Representative Lauren Melo, to build the comprehensive health center.

The organization plans to continue raising funds for its capital campaign with the goal of raising $15 million. Visit HealthcareSWFL.org to learn more about Healthcare Network’s mission and contribute to the capital campaign. Community support ensures that no one in Collier County has to go without basic primary care services.

Photo above: Philanthropist Jerry Nichols (center) gifts check to Healthcare Network’s CEO Jamie Ulmer (left) and the Associate Director of Philanthropy Antonello Castaldi (right) for the construction of a comprehensive health center in the Orangetree of Golden Gate Estates.

About Healthcare Network
For more than 45 years, Healthcare Network has distinguished itself by providing primary health care to men, women and children of all ages, helping the disenfranchised, underinsured, and uninsured of our communities, as well as those with insurance and resources who recognize the quality and comprehensiveness of care available. The organization has grown from two small trailers in Immokalee to a network of providers located throughout Collier County. Primary healthcare services include family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, senior care, dental care and pharmacy as well as integrated and traditional behavioral health for both adults and children. Additionally, the organization’s community health workers bring health and social services directly to underserved families. For more information, visit www.HealthcareSWFL.org, or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000.