Families Together of Orange County: Transforming Healthcare for Communities

Families Together of Orange County (FTOC) stands as a testament to community resilience and innovation in healthcare. Founded in 2003 by CEO Alexander Rossel and a group of dedicated private doctors, FTOC has grown from a modest medical and dental practice to a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alike. With a vision of accessibility and community-centric care, the organization continues to tackle the fundamental barriers that prevent many families from receiving essential healthcare services.

From its inception at 661 West 1st Street in Tustin, FTOC focused on bridging the gaps in healthcare accessibility, addressing issues like language barriers, transportation challenges, and lack of healthcare navigation knowledge. Initial services included in-house transportation, a hallmark that remains vital to this day. The organization’s community-driven approach has been consistently evident, as it sought to empower families by offering medical and dental services while establishing connections with community resources, such as food pantries and tutoring programs.

In 2013, the landscape changed when the resource center required new leadership to sustain its operations. Alexander Rossel stepped in, embodying a great opportunity to rejuvenate Families Together. With a background in healthcare and a passion for community service, Rossel became the CEO and transformed FTOC into a robust health clinic. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, where the organization shifted from private practices to full-fledged community health services.

By 2015, FTOC had fully transitioned into a community clinic, setting the stage for its acceptance as a Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike in December 2016. This significant achievement not only demonstrated FTOC’s commitment to quality care but also required meticulous preparation and a rigorous 3-day federal inspection. Impressively, Families Together became the first community health center in Orange County to achieve 100% compliance on its initial attempt, and it has maintained that excellence through three consecutive assessments.

The designation as an FQHC Look-Alike enabled FTOC to reinvest in its services and outreach efforts. Within a short timeframe, the center expanded its operations to accommodate over 10,000 patient visits each month, establishing additional sites in Garden Grove and Fountain Valley. Furthermore, its dedicated Wellness Center in Tustin offers an extensive range of mental health services and specialized programs like weight resistance training and physical therapy, ensuring a holistic approach to wellness.

In line with its mission of reaching vulnerable populations, Families Together has introduced four mobile units that provide essential medical, dental, behavioral health, and vision services directly to underserved communities. These units travel to homeless shelters, schools, parks, and shopping centers, effectively delivering healthcare to those who may otherwise face barriers in accessing medical assistance. This innovative outreach is a testament to the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and comprehensive care for all.

As FTOC continues to evolve, Alexander Rossel’s vision remains a guiding force, inspiring the organization to redefine what it means to deliver community-driven healthcare. Every day, Families Together affirms its dedication to building healthier communities, where healthcare access is a right, not a privilege. With its unwavering focus on the well-being of every individual, FTOC stands not only as a medical provider but as a vital pillar of support for families across Orange County.