Nonprofit Spotlight: Trinity Community Care 

For more than a decade, Trinity Community Care has filled a critical gap in Macomb County by providing free medical and dental care to individuals who might otherwise go without. 

The clinic was founded in 2013 after members of Trinity Lutheran Church traveled abroad on medical mission trips and began asking an important question: If there is need around the world, what about here at home?  

That question sparked a vision that led to a standalone clinic just down the street from the church, which continues to serve the community today through the dedication of volunteers, donors and partners. While the church remains involved, the clinic now operates as an independent nonprofit organization.   

Guided by Christian values, Trinity Community Care provides a wide range of services, including primary medical care, dental procedures, lab work, limited imaging, vision screenings and more. The clinic also connects patients with additional community resources when needed.  

All services are offered at no cost to qualifying patients, making care accessible to individuals and families who might otherwise delay or forgo treatment. 

Last year alone, Trinity Community Care provided 680 visits to 209 unique, a significant impact for a small, volunteer-driven organization. 

Nearly all services provided by Trinity Community Care are delivered by volunteer medical professionals, many of whom are retired or donate their time outside of regular work hours. 

“We’re a smaller nonprofit, but we do a lot with what we have,” said Cathryne Cansler, administrative assistant. “The biggest need is consistent volunteers.”  

One recent patient, a military veteran, had not seen a dentist in more than 20 years due to severe health challenges that limited his mobility. Through Trinity Community Care, he is now receiving dental care and dentures, which will allow him to eat nutritious food, speak more clearly and regain his confidence. 

“He can’t wait to smile again,” said Amber Scarletta, executive director.  

Trinity Community Care is also a graduate of Advancing Macomb’s Nonprofit Accelerator, where leadership gained tools, connections and strategic direction to strengthen their operations. 

“The program helped us see where we are and where we want to go,” Scarletta said. “It gave us a starting point and really lit a fire under us. Meghan Rutigliano, the program’s manager, has been wonderful and helped us so much.” 

Through the Accelerator, the organization has expanded its partnerships, strengthened its financial operations and built new connections that directly benefit patients. 

As Trinity Community Care looks to the future, the focus is on growth and sustainability. Recent upgrades include a newly redesigned website and an upcoming digital patient intake system to improve efficiency and access.  

Community support is vital for maintaining Trinity Community Care’s mission. Community members looking to get involved can volunteer their time or professional expertise, attend fundraising events, share the organization’s story and refer individuals who may need care. To learn more or get involved, visit www.trinitycommunitycare.org.