In 2005, 6.5 million Californians under the age of 65 were without health insurance.  The U.S. Census Bureau announced that the number of uninsured increased to 46.6 million in ’05, up almost 1 million from 2004.  When health conditions like diabetes or hypertension are left untreated, the debilitating side effects cause people to struggle to care for their families and maintain an income to pay for basic expenses like housing and food.  Access to health care is needed for the health and well being of ALL people.  Public health issues like Hepatitis, TB, skin conditions, infections or common illnesses impact the entire community when left untreated since these conditions are spread through food, air, or contact.  A growing number of families are using hospital Emergency Rooms for health care after problems have become more serious than they needed to be. People without a physician can not get a prescription for an antibiotic to cure an ear or bladder infection. Going without treatment can have negative long term consequences for everyone. There is also a shortage of nurses and other health care professionals in Ventura County and in the state. Inspiring local high school students to pursue a health care career and giving them the opportunity to make a difference in their community is an important strategy to address this need. Though the challenges seem great, by thinking of innovative solutions that assist uninsured people where they are, and by obtaining the support of the community, lives can be changed and people can be empowered to help themselves.