Mr. CUSOM, largest fundraiser for community care clinics, is Jan. 16

Mr. CUSOM, the largest fundraiser for the Campbell University Community Care Clinics (CUCCC), is Friday, Jan. 16, at the Stewart Theater in Dunn.

The event starts at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6.

Mr. CUSOM, held annually, is a student-run production, featuring first-year med students in an all-male talent and beauty pageant. This year's show carries a "Pirate Voyage" theme.

The mobile and freestanding clinics, part of the Campbell medical school, provide cost-free healthcare to underserved people throughout Eastern North Carolina.

The CUCC is funded through myriad grants, yet it also largely relies on private donations and other support, such as fundraising events. The clinic offers free visits, lab work, imaging and medications to people who would not otherwise have access to health care, on campus and via mobile medical units. The clinic sees only uninsured patients, living at or below 250 percent of the U.S. poverty line.

The volunteer-based clinic, established in 2014 within the med school, is composed of physicians and physician assistants who oversee teams of medical, physician assistant and pharmacy students. The first year of the clinic, the Campbell teams saw 237 patients. Last year they surpassed 1,700.

Interim Dean Dr. David Tolentino says Campbell is committed to serving area communities with compassion, excellence and innovation.

"Since matriculating our first class in 2013, CUSOM has worked tirelessly to close gaps in healthcare access," Tolentino said during a recent ribbon-cutting for a new station house, which will house the mobile units.

"From community clinics and mobile outreach in Harnett County to global health missions in places like Guatemala, Ghana and the Dominican Republic, our students and faculty have embraced the call to serve wherever the need is greatest."

For tickets, click here. To donate to the clinic, click here.

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