Honoring a Legacy: Nearly Three Decades of Service to Clearwater Free Clinic
For more than 30 years, Steve Bouton has been a pillar of the Clearwater Free Clinic, dedicating his time, energy, and expertise to ensure the organization’s growth and sustainability. Now entering retirement, he leaves behind a legacy of transformative leadership that helped shape the clinic into a vital resource for the underserved.
A Humble Beginning
Recalling his early days on the board, Bouton painted a picture of the clinic’s humble beginnings. “My very first board meeting was at Dr. Steve Morgan’s house,” he said. “There were six of us, and the clinic had about $43,000 to its name. We were essentially operating hand-to-mouth.” Despite these modest circumstances, the vision for what the clinic could become was crystal clear.
Joining the board was a natural fit for Bouton, who already had a passion for giving back to the community. “I got involved through the Countryside Kiwanis Club,” he explained. “A member who had worked with the clinic since its founding was stepping away, and I was asked if I wanted to help. I said yes immediately—it felt like a calling.”
Building the Foundation
As president of the board for an unprecedented 10 years, Bouton oversaw numerous milestones that solidified the clinic’s foundation. One of his earliest achievements was formalizing the clinic’s governance. “When I joined, there weren’t bylaws or formal procedures,” he explained. “I sat down and wrote the bylaws myself. That structure became the backbone of how we operated.”
He also reimagined leadership succession to ensure continuity. “I created a system where a vice chair would serve for two years before stepping into the chair role. That rotation allowed us to groom leaders and maintain stability,” he shared.
Recognizing the importance of collaboration, he built a strong executive board that included key figures like Bruce Livingston and David Ridenhauer. “I learned in the Marine Corps that leadership isn’t about making decisions alone—it’s about building teams. I leaned on extraordinary people to help guide the clinic forward.”
Expanding the Clinic’s Reach
Under Bouton’s leadership, the clinic underwent significant growth. He spearheaded capital campaigns, property acquisitions, and facility expansions that transformed the clinic from a small operation into a 12,000-square-foot healthcare hub.
This groundwork eventually led to the clinic’s current location and paved the way for the development of a new annex. “The annex is a game-changer,” he said. “It will allow the clinic to expand its services and continue meeting the growing needs of the community.”
Memorable Moments
Throughout his tenure, Bouton cultivated deep relationships with donors, volunteers, and staff. He fondly recalled organizing the clinic’s annual golf ball drop, which became a signature event. “One year, I even proposed to my wife during the event—up in the helicopter, just before dropping the golf balls,” he laughed.
Beyond the events and fundraisers, he cherished the friendships he built with those who shared his passion for the clinic’s mission. “There have been so many incredible people—doctors, nurses, board members, and donors—who gave their all to this clinic. Their dedication inspires me every day.”
Looking Ahead
As he transitions into retirement, Bouton is optimistic about the clinic’s future. He sees great promise in the leadership of CEO Tony Degina. “Tony is a terrific guy, and I hope he sticks around for four or five years. He has the experience and vision to take the clinic to the next level,” he said.
He also shared his hopes for the clinic’s governance. “A strong board is essential,” he said. “When I started, there were only six board members, but I pushed to grow that number to at least 20. You need a robust board with active committees to ensure the organization can thrive.”
While he plans to spend more time traveling—revisiting Paris and exploring destinations like New Zealand and Australia—Bouton’s connection to the Clearwater Free Clinic remains unwavering. “The clinic is in my will, and I’ll always support it—financially, emotionally, and spiritually,” he said. “It’s been one of the most meaningful parts of my life.”
A Lasting Legacy
Bouton’s contributions to the Clearwater Free Clinic extend far beyond the projects he led or the funds he raised. His leadership, passion, and commitment to the mission of providing care to the underserved have left an indelible mark on the organization.
As the clinic embarks on its next chapter, Bouton’s legacy will serve as a reminder of what can be achieved through teamwork, vision, and a deep commitment to the community. His story is one of perseverance, generosity, and an unwavering belief in the power of people coming together to make a difference.
For those who follow in his footsteps, his advice is simple yet profound: “Surround yourself with the right people, build a strong foundation, and stay focused on the mission. That’s how you create something that lasts.”