Originally published in 2018, this article captured the remarkable generosity and volunteer spirit of Doris Hunker and Nancy Schlegel. Now, after many more years of loyal support, we are proud to share their story again.
Community members who donate or volunteer are vital to our mission. Meet two women committed to doing both.
When Doris Hunker and Nancy Schlegel first visited Marin Community Clinics, services were provided in trailers at Marin General Hospital.
They instantly knew they wanted to get involved. “It was just fantastic,” Nancy recalls. “We were impressed by the diversity of patients and how respectfully staff treated everyone.”
That visit sparked a commitment that has lasted for years. They made an initial donation, and their involvement quickly deepened.
Promoting Child Literacy
Partners for 52 years, Doris (88) and Nancy (82) are retired teachers with decades of elementary and middle school experience.
Longtime volunteer Judie Shaw, known as “The Book Nook Lady,” immediately saw they were a perfect fit.
She introduced them to the Book Nook program at the San Rafael and Novato clinics.
Understanding the importance of early reading, they jumped right in. For five years, they collected, organized, and delivered donated children’s books to the San Rafael clinic.
Early donations were scarce, so they purchased used books themselves. After contacting schools and librarians, contributions grew significantly. They credit the Friends of the San Rafael Library as their “saving grace.”
Today, they visit the clinic every two weeks. “There is always a need for books,” Doris says, especially for pre-K through third graders.
Solstice Supporters and Legacy Circle Members
Their volunteer work deepened their understanding of the Clinics’ impact. For the past five years, they have sponsored the Summer Solstice event. They often bring friends to introduce them to MCC’s mission.
They were also among the first to join the Legacy Circle. Doris designated a percentage of her trust to MCC. Nancy contributed a set amount. Both gifts are unrestricted, supporting whatever the Clinics need most. “I know what we’re doing is helping someone,” Doris says.
“It gives us real satisfaction knowing underinsured people receive care in a safe place,” adds Nancy.
What a team!
2025 Update: A New Chapter for Doris & Nancy
Nearly seven years after their story was first shared, Doris Hunker and Nancy Schlegel remain devoted supporters of Marin Community Clinics. Even as life has changed, their generosity and spirit continue.
Several years ago, Doris was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, reshaping daily life for both women. After a decade at The Tamalpais, she later moved to the medical unit for additional care. “There, they take wonderful care of her,” Nancy says. As a result, she is grateful she can simply take the elevator down to visit each day.
Despite these physical challenges, Doris’s warmth remains unchanged. In fact, she still reaches out to connect with others. In doing so, she brightens the days of staff and residents alike.
Although they can no longer volunteer in MCC’s Book Program, their inspiration has not faded. Instead, Nancy continues to cherish the smiles of young patients. She also values her meaningful friendship with longtime volunteer leader Judie Shaw.
Meanwhile, their dedication lives on through MCC’s Legacy Circle. “It feels good knowing our support helps people who might otherwise be left out,” Nancy says.
Finally, Nancy offers a message for potential donors. “If you care about your community and your neighbors, supporting Marin Community Clinics truly matters. Most importantly, it makes a real difference.”