Now That Is Called Volunteering

Two Ballwin Baptist Church members are giving everything they've got rehabbing future home of the Heron Fund Clinic.  

The Aqua Effect will be starting a low-income medical and psychiatric clinic in the heart of North Saint Louis.  The name Heron Fund Clinic will be in tribute to our founding charity name.  The clinic will have a grand opening later this year. Rob Nobell (left) and Vern Daffron (right) are members of Ballwin Baptist Church.  They are solely volunteering their days to this rehab.  Thank you to our volunteers for making the importance of health priceless. 

What does a brick building mean to you?  It means a whole lot more than brick and mortar for local non-for-profits and our city. 

Donated Building

As you walk the streets of North Saint Louis, plenty of abandoned buildings sit vacant on overgrown lots. These once historic beauties need much more than a cosmetic makeover.

Dr. Franco Sicuro, Alzheimer's Specialist and Psychiatrist, recently donated a 13,500 sq building to LOVEtheLOU local charity.

Lucas Rouggly, Founder of LOVEtheLOU charity

Lucas Rouggly, founder of LOVEtheLOU says: “To really rebuild our city, you need to rebuild hope in our people”.  By partnering with LOVEtheLOU and starting the only low- income medical/psychiatric clinic in the area, The Aqua Effect is doing just that.   "The Heron Fund Clinic is vital to the empowerment of our city. The effects of this medical help for our community are endless" stays Lowell Strong, 20-year resident.  The clinic is located a few steps from the bus stop and walking distance for most of the community.  "People can visit the clinic while waiting for transportation to work." says George, a local volunteer.  

George (left) and Lucas (right) standing next to bus stop

The building is located on north Kingshighway and has 10 low-income apartments and 4 store fronts.  The Heron Fund Clinic will occupy one of the store fronts.  LOVEtheLOU has exciting hopes for the rest of the building.  They plan to partner with local businesses, create educational programs, and bring safe housing for north Saint Louis families.  "People feels safe when they know doctors and nurses are looking out for them in their own neighborhood" states Lowell Strong.