For those of you that may not follow health care, it is a very large and complex industry. The US healthcare industry is a $3 trillion industry and the largest industry in Downey.

Our nation is proposing a massive healthcare reform that will adversely impact seniors and working families. Although most hospitals are not designed for preventive and post-follow up care, there is an organization that goes above and beyond to address the healthcare needs for the most vulnerable and often times polarized sector of society. 
 
In 2015, the non-profit organization, Wesley Health Centers (formerly known as JWCH Institute) opened its doors in Downey at 8530 Firestone Blvd., across the street from Downey High School. With 17 community clinics throughout Los Angeles County, they remained focused on their mission to improve the health status and well-being of residents through the direct provision and coordination of health care, health education, services, and research.  

Wesley Health Centers would not be possible without the vision and leadership of its CEO, Al Ballesteros. 
 
Al is one of the nation’s foremost leaders on healthcare reform and federally qualified health care centers. Growing up, Al experienced and witnessed the disparity and lack of quality healthcare for some of the most vilified segments of society. That’s led him to use his position and capacity to create a model system that provides hope for the most vulnerable; regardless of your ability to pay, nobody gets turned away. 
 
Al has been a leader in our community for many years and has served on numerous boards by remaining keened to his vision. When I created the Mayor’s Healthy Heart Award, I wanted to recognize leaders that have the gift to transform the silenced broken hearts into hope.

It truly is my honor to present Al Ballesteros with the Mayor’s Healthy Heart Award for his commitment toward improving the health, well-being and future success for the residents of the City of Downey.