Jorge Riopedre, an influential networker in the local Hispanic community, has morphed into the role of executive director of a nonprofit health clinic. <\/p>\n
In his latest incarnation, he is running Casa de Salud, which translates to House of Health in Spanish. The St. Louis organization provides clinical and mental health care for the uninsured, with a special focus on the Latino community. <\/p>\n
Were proud to do what we do here, Riopedre said. Heres the next generation of immigrants who come to the United States with hope of a better life, and heres Casa. ... Its a feel-good job. <\/p>\n
In 2010, Riopedre served as the paid executive director of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for Metropolitan St. Louis. In 2008 and 2009, he was the chambers volunteer chairman and president. He previously ran two independent video production companies in the St. Louis area. <\/p>\n
Casa de Salud opened its doors in 2010. Last year, the clinic delivered more than 10,000 patient services to an estimated 4,000 individuals, Riopedre said. <\/p>\n
Patients pay a $25 fee for an office visit. <\/p>\n
Casa de Salud mainly serves immigrants and asks no questions about a persons immigration status. <\/p>\n
About half of these patients are undocumented workers, Riopedre said. Many do manual labor, including construction and landscaping, or work in service businesses, such as restaurants and hotels. <\/p>\n
Casa de Salud also provides counseling services for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. <\/p>\n
The clinic serves adults only and refers children to the Peoples Health Center. Unlike adults, immigrant children often have insurance through federal programs. <\/p>\n
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Jorge Riopedre delivers health care to immigrants<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Jorge Riopedre, an influential networker in the local Hispanic community, has morphed into the role of executive director of a nonprofit health clinic. Continue reading