We pull together. Our goal is a common one.

Being a member of a community health center board is not a light responsibility. Board members oversee a system of care that must meet a host of expectations as a federally qualified health center. They volunteer a lot of time.

Charlesetta Fishman is a founding community board member who has been at the table since November 2001. She has lived in East Palo Alto for 40 years and remembers when University Avenue was an unpaved road. She knows its struggles and is a diplomatic advocate for both the community and the clinic.

One way or another she’s been associated with medicine for most of her life. Her mother was one of the ones who broke the barrier for women in medicine--as a female and as an African American; she became a surgical podiatrist. Charlesetta, herself, has worked to improve the health of others indirectly—in an administrative role at Stanford Medical School and as a member of the clinic’s Board.

Laughter is the best medicine.

Humor is Charlesetta’s signature. She makes good the saying, “Laughter is the best medicine.” Even going through her own physical trials this past year, she dismisses concern with a ready quip that makes you laugh. “There really isn’t much use in complaining.” she says.

She often comes by the clinic to see how things are going and talks with patients. “Remember”, she says, “we’re here to help you however we can. You can always get in touch with me.”