The Pines Care Center (PCC) was established as a New York State non-profit organization in 1984, following an initiative by the Fire Island Pines Property Owners’ Association (FIPPOA) to restore medical services to the community after nearly a decade without a resident doctor. To limit liability for FIPPOA, a separate organization was created to provide facilities and financial support for contracted physicians.
 

The founding effort was led by Dr. John Fenoglio, Dr. Robert Levin, and Marilyn Levin, RN, with legal guidance from attorney Larry Bonaguidi and pro bono work by James Guyer. The organization was named Pines Care Centerafter several proposed names were rejected by the state.
 

PCC began operating in the basement of the old Pines Community Center in 1984, providing seasonal medical services supported by community fundraising and volunteers, many of whom were members of the Fire Island Pines Volunteer Fire Department. Early leadership included Dr. Fenoglio (President), Dr. Robert Levin (Chairman), Marilyn Levin (Vice President), and Jim Cashel (Treasurer).
 

Over the years, PCC expanded its services and strengthened its role within the community. Dedicated physicians such as Dr. Arlo Pitcher and Dr. Juanita Evereteze became well known for their compassionate care to residents and visitors.
 

After Dr. Fenoglio’s passing in 1989, Dr. Robert Levin became President. In 2000, Dr. Ed Schulhafer assumed leadership and guided the organization through a period of growth and financial stability.
 

When the original Community Center was demolished in 2005, PCC temporarily relocated before moving in 2007 to its modern facilities in the Freeman/Yeager Wing of Whyte Hall, thanks to generous community support and donations.
 

In 2009, PCC eliminated its fee schedule, making medical care available to everyone regardless of ability to pay—an innovative model that significantly increased patient visits.
 

In 2011, Stephen Hayes became PCC’s fourth President. Today, PCC serves more than 700 residents and visitors each season, remaining a vital part of the Fire Island Pines community thanks to decades of dedicated leadership and generous community support.