Justice Gennari
Chairman of Board of Directors , Ybor Youth Clinic
Why is the Ybor Youth Clinic ( YYC ) special to you ? Joining the Board provided me a chance to give back to the community while helping the youth receive the care they deserve and need . I have been through a few struggles growing up so I can relate . I didn ’ t always feel as if I could be myself and felt I had to lie about who I was . As a patient , The YYC has always provided me the highest quality , innovative , compassionate and non-judgmental healthcare . Dr . Diane Straub and the entire YYC medical team are true heroes . They treat me and all the patients with respect .
How did you first come in contact with the clinic ? I heard through a board member , who was a friend they needed volunteers at their March 2016 Sponsor Cocktail Party . While I was volunteering I realized I wanted to become involved on a larger level and felt my strengths could possibly help them . In June , I was appointed as a board member , and slowly moved into my current role as the
Chairman .
When did you become the YYC Board of Directors Chairman ? 3 years ago .
Can anyone walk-in and is there a cost ? As a youth clinic , under the pediatrics division we can only treat patients ages 13-24 . Additionally , a minor may request confidential services at no charge . Uninsured adults ( 18- 24 ) are charged a $ 30.00 flat fee for visits . However , no patient will be turned away for the inability to pay and we accept insurance .
Why is the clinic ’ s mission important to the community ? The YYC provides judgement free comprehensive care specifically for youth and young adults , including sick visits and preventative medical care ; sexual / reproductive health care , including birth control ; HIV and STI testing , treatment , prevention counseling , and referrals ; referrals to specialized care for physical and emotional trauma including sexual assault , abuse , domestic violence and drug abuse ; and linkage to other youth programs within the community .
What is the biggest misconception about the Ybor Youth Clinic ? Many young patients in need and at risk think they must be accompanied by an adult in order to be seen by our doctors . Most do not know we treat patients regardless if they can afford to pay for the services or not . The misconception often is the result of no care .
What is your organizations largest hurdle and could use the most assistance ? Funding and community awareness !
Does the YYC have a volunteer program ? We are often challenged to have volunteers behind the clinic doors while maintaining HIPPA guidelines . We do have a few volunteer opportunities for USF Health Students . This year we are looking to expand in volunteering outreach programs . We are currently seeking new members for our board and Annual Giving Campaign committee . The Annual Giving Campaign Committee is responsible for leading our fundraising efforts for the clinic and our two annual fund raising events .
How do people donate money ? Visit our website www . yboryouthclinic . health . usf . edu to donate direct and keep up to date regarding our fund raising events .
THE DISTRICT - TAMPA ’ S URBAN DWELLING MAGAZINE 31