History of GVHC

In September 1972, the organization began as a small Migrant Health Services program connected to Merced General Hospital. Founding CEO, Mike Sullivan, led the way with a budget of less than $200,000, a small but mighty staff of six, and a part-time MD. Health services were initially provided at the Hospital during evening hours. The following year, Merced Family Health Centers received its nonprofit corporation from the state of California and broke ground soon after on Childs Avenue in Merced, where our largest Health Center campus in the region remains today.

Since its inception, Golden Valley Health Centers has greatly expanded to meet the needs of the community across Merced, Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties. Currently, the organization proudly serves over 145,000 patients each year through 45 clinical locations in the region. In 2022, GVHC celebrated its 50th anniversary, a remarkable accomplishment of providing high-quality, primary care services to hundreds of thousands across the communities we serve. From 2014-2024, under the outstanding leadership of CEO Tony Weber, the organization has made significant strides in improving access to health care for underserved populations.

In 2024 Weber retired after a decade of excellent leadership. Following his retirement, GVHC welcomed David Quackenbush to serve as President and Chief Executive officer. Mr. Quackenbush is a leader in prioritizing, developing and providing direction and oversight for the organization’s vision, strategy, corporate growth. His focus is increasing access to high quality comprehensive health care services. The core belief that everyone should have access to health care has been the guiding principle of GVHC since its founding, and remains central to its work to this day. Golden Valley Health Centers continues to meet its mission through dedication, hard work, and the power of partnership.