History of Lestonnac Free Clinic

Executive Director: 1979-1999

“This is God’s clinic.” - Sister Marie Therese

Our Founding Story: A Mission Born of Compassion

In January 1979, guided by prayerful reflection and a deep calling to serve, Sister Marie Therese founded Lestonnac Free Clinic. Though she had no medical training herself, Sister recognized a growing crisis — too many people in her community were living without access to even the most basic healthcare.

What began as a small effort to care for children’s coughs, colds, and scrapes soon blossomed into a greater mission.

With her unwavering spirit and compassionate leadership, Sister Marie Therese inspired a network of dedicated volunteers, and formed partnerships with local hospitals, donors, and foundations. What started as a modest clinic soon evolved into a trusted provider of comprehensive primary, dental, and specialty care — all at no cost to those in need.

More than four decades later, Lestonnac Free Clinic continues Sister's legacy, serving as a beacon of hope and healing for the uninsured and underserved.

Sister’s Legacy

Carrying the Mission Forward

With Sister Marie Therese’s mission as their guiding light, Executive Directors Rosalie Corless and Edward Gerber carried forward the work of caring for Southern California’s uninsured — ensuring Lestonnac remained a place of healing, hope, and dignity.

Rosalie Corless (2000–2008)

During Rosalie’s tenure, a major shift in public health policy — the passage of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) — led to a change in Lestonnac’s services. As more children gained access to coverage through CHIP, Lestonnac transitioned to focus entirely on adult care.

Rosalie led this evolution with care and compassion, ensuring that parents and families received the support, guidance, and resources they needed throughout the transition. Under her leadership, Lestonnac deepened its commitment to serving uninsured adults with expanded medical services and community outreach.

Edward Gerber (2008–2025)

Under the visionary leadership of Edward Gerber, Lestonnac Free Clinic transformed from a single-site operation into a robust network of 26 satellite clinics, with 14 actively serving communities across Southern California.

In addition to brick-and-mortar clinics, Ed championed the expansion of mobile medical and vision units, bringing care directly to underserved neighborhoods. This commitment to innovation and accessibility culminated in a historic milestone on May 1, 2025, with the opening of the nation’s first free surgery center — a groundbreaking step in delivering life-changing care at no cost.

Ed’s unwavering dedication to accessible, no-cost healthcare empowered Lestonnac to provide vital medical, dental, surgical, and specialty services to those who need it most. His leadership propelled the Clinic’s enduring mission forward: no one should be denied care because they cannot afford it.

Stephen Peters (2025–Present)

Stephen Peters assumed the role of Executive Director in December 2025, bringing with him a deep understanding of Lestonnac Free Clinic’s mission and a long-standing commitment to its success. A current member of the Board of Directors, Steve has supported the Clinic for more than 15 years of dedicated service, playing a vital role behind the scenes in strengthening and modernizing Lestonnac’s IT infrastructure to support growth and innovation.

Steve brings extensive nonprofit experience, including years of work with an overseas organization serving disabled orphans. An entrepreneur since the age of 21, he has founded and led multiple companies, combining strategic vision with operational excellence—skills that position Lestonnac for continued impact and sustainability.

A native of Orange County, Stephen maintains strong community roots and a deep commitment to his family. Working closely with Executive Director Emeritus Ed Gerber, he is guiding Lestonnac into its next chapter—honoring its founding mission while advancing a more compassionate, accessible, and equitable healthcare future for those most in need.