Our History

See key milestones from the founding of Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton, now First Flight Health Centers.

Outside of the Corwin Nixon Health Center building with Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton (CHGCD) signage at the entrance.

2006

Planning a Federally Qualified Health Center in Dayton

Public Health—Dayton & Montgomery County began working with Kettering Health Network and Premier Health Partners to establish a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Dayton. At the time, Dayton was the only metropolitan area in Ohio without an FQHC serving the general population.

FQHC Logo

2009

FQHC Designation Awarded

CHCGD was awarded Federally Qualified Health Center status in March 2009. This designation was supported by federal funding through the Health Resources and Services Administration, along with financial support from community partners, allowing CHCGD to expand access to primary and preventive care regardless of ability to pay.

2013

Alex Central Joins CHCGD

Alex Central Health Center opened following the complete renovation of a former furniture store, expanding access to care in the southern part of Montgomery County.

2014

Dental Services Return to East Dayton

After securing public and private grant funding, CHCGD reopened the East Dayton Dental Center in March 2014, offering comprehensive oral health services on‑site for the first time in five years.

2016

Mobile Health Unit Relaunched with Dayton Public Schools

In partnership with Dayton Public Schools, CHCGD reactivated a mobile health unit focused on asthma care and education for students. The unit travels to schools throughout the year to provide regular assessments and support.

Bronze HRSA Certificate of Achievement for Quality Recognition.

2020

Expanded Pediatric Dental Care & Quality Recognition

CHCGD began offering oral health services for children at Miami Valley Child Development Centers. The organization was also recognized by the Health Resources and Services Administration as a Health Center Quality Leader, receiving a Bronze Award for overall clinical performance.

2021

Continued Quality Recognition & Program Changes

CHCGD received a Silver Health Center Quality Leader Award from HRSA, ranking among the top 11–20% of health centers nationally.

2022

Expansion into Northern Montgomery County

CHCGD expanded services to Huber Heights with the opening of Chambersburg Health Center, providing care to communities in the northern part of the county.

First Flight Health Centers Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaun'ta Whitehead smiles for a professional headshot photo at East Dayton Health Center.

2025

Leadership Transition

Founding Executive Director Gregory Hopkins retired after nearly two decades of leadership. Shaun’ta Whitehead assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer, marking a new chapter while continuing the organization’s commitment to accessible, community‑based care.

First Flight Health Centers logo.

2026

A New Name: First Flight Health Centers

Formerly known as Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton, the organization became First Flight Health Centers. The rebrand reflects both the legacy of service in the Dayton community and a renewed focus on moving care forward for patients and families.