The CARE Clinic, a fixture in Fayetteville for over 30 years, is gearing up for its 25th Annual fundraiser on Thursday, September 18, starting at 6 p.m. The celebration not only affords an evening of fabulous food, dance, drink and opportunities to win one-of-a-kind travel packages, but also supports the organization’s mission: to provide free, quality healthcare to low-income, uninsured adults in Cumberland and the surrounding counties.
Nicole Ryan, Development and Marketing Director of the CARE Clinic, says the clinic brings together doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, dental assistants, and pharmacy techs who volunteer out of love and commitment to their profession. Ryan says those volunteers provide basic medical care, basic dental extractions, laboratory tests, additional diagnostic testing, pharmacy services, health education, community resource information, social services, and referrals to specialists.
The services they offer are much needed, as Ryan says that a substantial portion of Cumberland County residents are either uninsured adults who are unemployed or work part-time, or those who exceed the Medicaid income limit, but can’t afford private insurance and out-of-pocket medical costs.
Ryan says that the services they offer wouldn’t be possible without the community’s support.
“While The CARE Clinic relies on grants, it also relies heavily on the compassion, support, and generosity of those within the community,” she explained. “This event wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of sponsors, vendors, and small businesses that align with our mission.”
Whether it’s individuals, churches, local businesses, or other nonprofits, the CARE Clinic represents a cross-section of people within the community who want to make healthcare accessible. The 25th Annual Toast of the Town is yet another opportunity for people to rally around that cause.
The evening will take place at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden just as fall begins to nip the air, making it a “perfect time to plan a night out” and a chance to enjoy the “vibrant hues” of autumn seen at the Gardens, according to a press release from the CARE Clinic.
“The Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful locations and venues within the community (as well as neighboring counties),“ Ryan said. “It offers a stunning setting, surrounded by the beauty of the gardens at sunset. It offers priceless value to an event where members of the community gather not only for a memorable and entertaining evening, but one that serves a worthy cause!”
According to the CARE Clinic, attendees will enjoy “locally made wine, beer, and spirits; dancing; heavy hors d’oeuvres; dessert; a 50/50 raffle, and unbeatable silent auction packages.” Silent auction packages include items donated by local businesses, attractions, and athletic teams. Guests can also bid on unbeatable vacations to locations such as Puerto Rico, New Orleans, France, Belgium, England, Portugal, Key West, Ireland, Curacao, Amalfi, and Greece. For some lucky winners, the excitement will extend beyond the dance floor!
“It will be a memorable evening,” said Ryan, who emphasized how fortunate the Clinic is to have many community partners and volunteers who make daily operations and this event possible.

(Photo courtesy of The CARE Clinic)