08/15/2025
Catching up with Lawndale Christian Health Center CEO Dr. James Brooks. A temperature check of North Lawndale.
By Todd Thomas
Loving God. Loving People.
Rev. Dr. James Brooks, CEO
NLCN: Thoughts on the shooting at Douglass Park swimming pool and LCHC’s role?
Brooks: What happened at Douglass Park was evil personified. Anytime violence touches our community, especially harming our children, it leaves a deep wound — emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Our hearts are heavy. We are praying for Jeremy’s recovery and lifting up the family of young Marjay, who tragically lost his life. No family should have to endure such pain.
At Lawndale Christian Health Center, we see our role as a place of healing and hope. We care for the physical injuries, yes, but we also walk alongside people in their trauma — offering access to integrated behavioral health services and creating space for people to grieve, process, and begin healing. Beyond that, we remain deeply committed to addressing the root causes of violence through strong partnerships, and simply showing up — being a steady, compassionate presence in this community we love.
NLCN: Minority Mental Health Month in July — what is LCHC doing in support?
Brooks: It’s okay to say you are not okay! July is a reminder of the disparities that exist in mental health care, particularly for communities of color. At LCHC, we’re using this month to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage people to seek help. We’re highlighting resources through our clinics and on social media, sharing stories of hope, and encouraging open conversations. We’re also continuing to integrate mental health support into primary care, because mental and physical health are deeply connected.
NLCN: Status and main function of the Academic Building under construction on Ogden?
Brooks: The Academic Building is moving forward, and we’re excited. Construction is progressing, and when it’s complete, this space will serve as a hub for developing our future workforce, expanding our optometry services, and offering a beautiful space for our seniors to receive quality care.
We’ll be able to train doctors, medical assistants, and others right here in North Lawndale. It’s about equipping people — many from our own community — with skills that lead to meaningful employment while strengthening the quality of care we provide.
NLCN: When is The annual 5K Run?
Lawndale Fitness Center’s 5k is on Saturday, September 27th. It’s always one of my favorite gatherings of the year. We expect strong participation because this event reflects who we are: people coming together for health, community, and fun. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about neighbors walking and running side by side, showing that we care about each other and the place we call home.
NLCN: Trump’s budget and potential impact on LCHC and those you serve?
Brooks: Any proposal that reduces access to care for the most vulnerable will have a real impact on communities like ours. We are watching closely, advocating for our patients, and preparing to adjust if needed. No matter what happens, our commitment remains the same: to show and share the love of Jesus by promoting wellness and providing quality health care for Lawndale and our neighboring communities.
NLCN: Anything else you would like to add:
Brooks: My deepest desire is to see more of our neighbors in North Lawndale connected to a primary care provider — someone they trust and see at least once a year. When people have regular access to care, we can catch problems early, prevent illness, and support their overall well-being. Far too often, families end up using the emergency room for non-emergencies, not because they want to, but because they don’t feel they have another option. This puts additional pressure on our safety-net hospitals and can leave people without the kind of consistent, preventive care they deserve.
At LCHC, we want to change that story. We want every resident to know there is a place for them — where they will be seen, heard, and cared for — not just in a crisis, but throughout their journey toward health.
I’d just emphasize how grateful I am for our team — from the front desk to our providers to our admin and outreach teams. The work we do is not easy, but it matters deeply. Every day I see lives being changed, and that keeps me hopeful about the future.
