Norwich: A Town of Volunteers and Good Neighbors

It all started when a few medical professionals hosted a community conversation, and someone asked the question, “Where do the homeless get their healthcare?” – a question that had not been at the front of everyone’s minds.

Over thirty years later, Good Neighbor Health Clinic (GNHC) is a shining example of what happens when a community comes together to address a problem for the better of everyone. Located in White River Junction, Vermont, it began with the hard work of two founders and their wives’ incredible support and resilience, eventually blossoming into a multi-decade legacy of good quality, affordable healthcare. For over 32 years, GNHC has been providing medical and dental care for free to people of the Upper Valley, all thanks to their volunteers.

You might know Paul and Wendy Manganiello of Norwich; their work and desire to do more for others has created an incredible space where over 327 volunteers have dedicated thousands of hours to make free care possible over the years. It was an idea hatched from Paul and Peter Mason’s friendship, and a drive to make real change happen here at home in our community.

Wendy and Paul have been integral members of the Norwich community, witnessing and contributing to its growth and development over the years. Their journey began in 1979, when they moved from Georgia to West Lebanon, eventually settling in Norwich in 1984. From the outset, they were drawn to the town’s strong sense of community, particularly through the local school system, which helped them form lasting friendships and integrate into the fabric of the Norwich way of life.

Tonya Gammel, GNHC treasurer

One of the couple’s notable local contributions has been their involvement in the Good Neighbor Health Clinic. Their commitment to the clinic dates back to the 1980s, when a seminar on homelessness in the Upper Valley revealed a pressing need for community support services in the area. This realization spurred the formation of the Upper Valley Interfaith Homeless Coalition – a collaborative effort among local churches to provide temporary shelter and support for the homeless.

Paul’s medical background and Wendy’s dedication to social justice played crucial roles in these initiatives. They were instrumental in organizing and supporting the clinic, which provided essential healthcare services to those in need. Over the years, their efforts, along with those of numerous volunteers and community members, have transformed GNHC into a cornerstone of the local healthcare system.

The success of these community projects is a testament to the unwavering support from Norwich volunteers. According to Wendy and Paul, the town’s residents have consistently stepped up, offering their time, skills, and resources to ensure the well-being of their neighbors. This collective effort underscores the idea that community improvement is not the work of a few, but the result of many minds coming together with a shared vision and purpose. The Manganiello’s emphasize that their story is not just about their contributions, but about the power of community collaboration. They highlight the importance of recognizing the many volunteers and leaders who have dedicated themselves to GNHC’s mission over the years. These individuals have shown incredible dedication, often making personal sacrifices to support the clinic’s growth and sustainability.

Reflecting on their journey, Wendy and Paul express deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve and the remarkable people they have met along the way. With the incredible amount of non-profits in the Upper Valley, it is important to note how many people make these organizations successful. Consider the GNHC treasurer, Tonya Gammel – also a Norwich resident, who has found a use for her skills and work ethic to be applied to the non-profit setting and takes great pride in making sure the important things happen.

For two decades, Tonya Gammell has embraced the tight-knit community of Norwich, finding inspiration in its collective spirit. Joining the GNHC board six years ago, she continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing community health through her involvement and financial expertise.

Through GNHC, Tonya has gained insight into the challenges facing residents and the dedication of volunteers striving to overcome them. Balancing her board duties with a full-time career at Hypertherm and other community engagements, Tonya exemplifies Norwich’s spirit of giving back. Beyond her work with GNHC, she is passionate about fostering civic engagement, particularly among the next generation. Her journey from initial hesitance to active advocacy underscores the transformative power of individual commitment to community well-being.

Patty Monahan, Norwich community
member and GNHC Board member

As Norwich continues to evolve, Tonya’s dedication serves as a beacon, inspiring others to join in the effort to build a healthier, more vibrant community. In her tireless advocacy and unwavering support, Tonya embodies the essence of community unity and compassion that defines Norwich’s character.

Patty Monahan, VP of Senior Treasury and Municipal Services at Mascoma Bank and fellow community member of Norwich, also serves at GNHC on the Board, and you might find her in the community passing out information about the work that the clinic does to help spread the word.

The many good people of Norwich help form the Upper Valley community and have made lasting contributions to what Good Neighbor Health Clinic has become. Thank you, Norwich community, for your support of our work and for embodying what it means to be a “Good Neighbor”!

~ Elizabeth Austin, MHA, on Behalf of Good Neighbor Health Clinic