When starting a new business, the owner looks to turn a profit by bringing a product to a community that it needs and wants. That is how Herndon resident Jeannie Schmidt views the potential for a free clinic in Herndon – sans the profit-making aspect. "I'm hoping we can achieve a non-profit status and collect donations that will be tax deductible. It's very complex. It's like forming a business," said Schmidt, following the Jan. 31 inaugural meeting of those interested in establishing a free clinic. Encouraged by the turnout at the Neighborhood Resource Center (NRC), Schmidt is in the process of organizing various committees, which will be the topic of the group's 7:30 meeting on Feb. 21 at the NRC. "We ran out of chairs," she said, of the initial meeting. "I was so nervous giving this presentation," said Schmidt. "I'm just an old retired nurse. I don't run meetings." "I attended the meeting because I think there is a need for a free clinic to help people who are working and can't afford health insurance," said Herndon resident Joy M. Reed. She was planning to attend the next meeting. "I want to stay informed," she said. "There was a great turnout," said Liz Hagg, coordinator of the neighborhood Resource Office. "The next step is to form a steering committee. I don't see why this can't happen." Open Communication Schmidt envisions a committee that would go to the various health-care providers and enlist their aid in identifying the needs of the community. "How do you see us helping you give medical care to the community in need, is the question that needs to be asked," said Schmidt. "We want them involved and knowledgeable. We're not doing this behind anyone's back. we want to network, partner and open lines of communication." "I'm very excited about the possibility of a free clinic," said Martha Real, associate pastor at the Floris United Methodist Church on Centreville Road in Herndon. "It is very difficult for low income families to receive health care when they have no health insurance," said Real, who attended the first meeting in January. "Jeannie has worked many long hours getting information out to families concerning health resources that are currently available through federal, state and local programs," said Real. "Our church has a ministry called 'Floris Neighbors' which provides immigration legal assistance to low income families. We have encountered firsthand the difficulties our clients face in seeking health care for themselves and their children. I think the creation and development of a free clinic would truly be a blessing to our community."