Volunteer Spotlight: Luz Oriana Ortiz Henríquez, Interpreter & Medical Assistant

Meet Luz Oriana Ortiz Henríquez, a dedicated volunteer Interpreter and Medical Assistant who joined our team about six months ago. When she learned about the health disparities and lack of affordable healthcare in this country she Googled ways to give back. And sure enough, Culmore Clinic popped up!

We had a second to catch up with Luz to learn more about how she’s finding hope and joy through her volunteerism at Culmore Clinic.

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer like Carmen, you can learn more here.

So, Google, huh?

Yes! I found out about Culmore Clinic when I was Googling ways to help those without affordable access to healthcare. I had learned about the healthcare crisis while studying at college. I knew that if there were health disparities and lack of healthcare access abound, it was amplified among the Latino community*, one that I admire and love so much. Therefore, I wanted to do what I could to help.

What is your favorite thing about volunteering at Culmore Clinic?

The staff are beyond amazing, caring, and dedicated, and their determination to provide the best healthcare possible is truly inspiring.

Do you have any memories that stick out the most this last year?

My favorite memories are of when patients have felt comfortable enough around me and the rest of the team that we're all able to crack a couple of jokes together. Additionally, conversations about life with other staff and volunteer members at the break room table are beyond enjoyable.

What are you up to when you’re not volunteering with Culmore Clinic?

In terms of my career, I currently work at an animal research lab and I am also a student! I’ll be graduating very soon! Next, I plan to go to grad school and eventually medical school in the future. To have fun, I love reading, meeting with loved ones to have conversations about life, and playing games! However, my favorite thing in the world is to travel and experience new cultures. My last travel experience was to Korea and the impact it had on my life has led me to learning Korean! 

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’m beyond thankful to be a part of this amazing community at Culmore Clinic!