A community health workshop at The Willa Carson Health & Wellness Center, founded in 1997 by Willa Livingston Carson. Carson worked as a registered nurse and sought to meet the needs of those uninsured in her community. She formed a free, not-for-profit clinic that continues to uphold her legacy almost 30 years later. Image courtesy of the Willa Carson Center.
The Willa Carson Wellness and Health Center’s 13th Annual Run/Walk for Willa will be off to the races on March 28, 2026, at Coachman Park. Executive Director, Kimberly Nunn-Crawford is busy preparing for the non-profit’s clinic key event to take off at the end of the month.
In her role, Nunn-Crawford oversees the financial operations, coordinates and writes grants, and manages compliance to ensure the clinic meets all regulatory standards.
“My role also involves expanding our reach, boosting community awareness, networking, and pursuing new partnerships and resources for the wellness center,” said Nunn-Crawford.
The Willa Carson Health & Wellness Center was founded in 1997 in North Greenwood, Clearwater, by Willa Livingston Carson. Carson worked as a registered nurse and sought to meet the needs of those uninsured in her community. She formed a free, not-for-profit clinic that continues to uphold her legacy almost 30 years later.
After Carson’s passing in 2006, the “Walk for Willa” was established to honor her legacy. The first run/walk fundraiser started in 2007 as a community-driven event to celebrate her commitment to accessible health care and to raise both funds and awareness for the clinic.
Runners from the annual Run/Walk for Willa. Image courtesy of Kimberly Nunn-Crawford.
“Today, the Annual Run/Walk for Willa serves as a key fundraiser and a celebration, bringing together supporters from all backgrounds to advance the cause of accessible health and wellness in Pinellas County,” stated Nunn-Crawford.
This no-cost medical center is an enormous help to those uninsured and is funded primarily through donations. Funding supports the salaries of nurse practitioners and medical assistants, and has enabled the clinic to expand its mental health services. The wellness center has received generous grants from BayCare, the Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, the Pinellas Community Foundation, and Allegany Franciscan Foundation, to name a few.
“We recently partnered with the Rotary Club of Belleair, which hosted a 50-50 raffle to benefit the clinic; the proceeds were used to purchase much-needed clinic supplies,” Nunn-Crawford said.
The clinic operates part-time, three days a week, serving the community Tuesdays through Thursdays. Last year, they served approximately 237 individuals.
A mural depicting community health, painted by renowned local artist Zulu Painter, adorns the Willa Carson Health and Wellness Center in North Greenwood, Clearwater. Image courtesy of Kimberly Nunn-Crawford.
Last November, Nunn-Crawford attended the Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (FAFCC) Annual Conference. A key takeaway that stayed with her was “the importance of prioritizing donor relationships.”
“We are now implementing personal touches such as sending hand-written thank-you notes to our donors. This initiative aims to strengthen our connections and show genuine appreciation for their support, which is essential for sustaining our clinic’s mission,” explained Nunn-Crawford.
The Willa Carson Health and Wellness Center has achieved several significant milestones to expand its impact on the community. At the start, the center prioritized providing essential medical care for uninsured individuals. As their understanding of “holistic health” evolved, the no-cost medical center broadened its services to address an individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being. It introduced mental health services to support emotional well-being, as well as dietary consultations to help patients make informed nutritional choices.
“Recognizing the importance of addressing food insecurity, we recently partnered with Metropolitan Ministries to provide weekly congregate dining,” said Nunn-Crawford.
Carson’s vision to bring free and accessible healthcare to the community is evident in the center’s sustained operation and expansion nearly three decades later.
“By welcoming a new generation of residents, the clinic demonstrates its commitment to providing essential medical support and fostering wellness for all, regardless of financial barriers,” Nunn-Crawford affirmed.
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Runners from the annual Run/Walk for Willa. Image courtesy of Kimberly Nunn-Crawford.
