The Roanoke Chowan Community Health Center (RCCHC) is bringing new opportunities for both healthcare access and employment to rural Bertie County through the development of the Aulander Dental and Primary Care Clinic. Supported in part by the Golden LEAF Foundation, this 10,000-square-foot facility will house eight dental operatories and four medical exam rooms, offering integrated care in a medically underserved area.
While RCCHC received two federal grants to support construction, those funds did not fully cover the total project cost. The Golden LEAF Board awarded $500,000 to support construction and site work for the clinic.
“Golden LEAF funding was essential, bridging the gap and ensuring the clinic could be completed as originally envisioned, without reducing scope or quality,” said RCCHC Grants Manager Mandy Hall. “Golden LEAF’s funding allowed us to stay on schedule, fully equip our medical and dental spaces, and deliver a modern, welcoming facility that truly meets the needs of our patients.”
RCCHC serves Medicaid, Medicare, uninsured, and underinsured patients, ensuring that every resident in the community can access affordable, high-quality care close to home.
“In an area where access to care has historically been limited, this partnership made a lasting difference,” said Hall. “The Aulander Clinic expands access to both dental and primary care under one roof, something that’s truly transformative for the area. Many of our patients face transportation barriers and financial challenges, so having comprehensive care in one location is a tremendous benefit.”
Currently, the Aulander Clinic has 10 full time staff. When fully operational, it will employ 17 healthcare professionals, including 11 oral health staff, five medical staff, and one behavioral health professional. Fifteen of these positions will be full-time at the clinic, offering an average annual wage of $66,650, well above Bertie County’s 2023 average private sector wage of $38,098.
RCCHC leaders encourage other organizations seeking funding to be patient, persistent, and strategic.
“Funding large-scale projects takes time, creativity, and flexibility,” said Hall. “Each grant opportunity allows you to refine your vision and build lasting relationships. Collaboration with partners at the local, state, and federal levels is key to success.”
“Golden LEAF’s support goes beyond bricks and mortar—it represents an investment in the health and future of rural communities like ours,” said Hall. “This funding reinforces the power of collaboration between local, state, and federal partners to improve access, reduce disparities, and create lasting health outcomes. We are deeply grateful for Golden LEAF’s commitment to improving the quality of life for rural North Carolinians.”
This project not only expands access to essential services but also strengthens the local economy by creating sustainable, quality jobs in rural North Carolina. By combining dental, medical, and behavioral healthcare under one roof, the clinic will improve healthcare outcomes, supporting a healthy workforce in Bertie County for generations to come.