The Friends of OBCC Guild formed in 2017 and was built on the legacy of three women who stood strong in their conviction to bring quality healthcare to all people with dignity, regardless of their ability to pay.
Odessa Brown (1920-1969)
Odessa Brown was an activist who advocated for the health of Black children in Seattle's Central District Neighborhood. In the late 60's and early 70's, a government Model Cities Program was formed to reduce social and economical disadvantages in designated neighborhoods. Odessa Brown's mission, and success, was to open a children’s health clinic in the heart of the Central District, now known as the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic.
Blanche Sellers Lavizzo, MD (1925-1984)
Dr. Blanche Lavizzo was the first African American woman pediatrician in Washington state and the first Medical Director at OBCC. In her position as medical Director, she became the mainstay of healthcare for children in the Central Area. She gave the clinic its motto, which continues to guide the team today: "Quality care with dignity."
Elizabeth R. Thomas, ARNP (1934-2011)
For 25 years, Elizabeth R. Thomas served as a Nurse Practitioner at OBCC. In 1975, she was the first African American to complete the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Washington School of Nursing. Throughout her career, she was a respected and tireless advocate for social justice, committed to the well-being of all children and families.
Past & Present Members of the Guild
