For Dr. Peter Leung, Kaiser Permanente San Bernardino family medicine physician at Fontana Medical Center, volunteering isn’t just an occasional act of charity; it’s an ongoing passion fueled by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility toward those in need. Over the past year and a half, Dr. Leung has been dedicated to working with underserved populations, particularly the unhoused, through a variety of initiatives and outreach programs.
Street Medicine: A Hands-On Approach to Helping the Homeless
Dr. Leung’s passion for volunteerism led him to start a street medicine program—a critical service that provides medical care and basic needs to people experiencing homelessness.
His involvement started organically when he began volunteering with a local church offering his medical expertise as a resource. Every month, Dr. Leung leads a street medicine clinic at Purpose Church at its unhoused ministry in Pomona, where he and a team provide essential health care services to those in need. He also volunteers with another non-profit group, Just Us 4 Youth, walking the streets, visiting people in encampments and offering basic needs assistance, such as food, water and medical care.
But Dr. Leung didn’t stop there. He saw an opportunity to do more and wanted to expand his efforts. This vision led him to create redefineD, a nonprofit organization aimed at tackling the homeless crisis head-on. With the help of his partners, Dr. David Wong and Dr. Kelly Leung, refineD launched in June 2024. The mission of redefineD is to inspire others to join the movement, break down barriers to care and provide medical assistance to those who lack access to care. The organization’s website, e-redefined.org, is a platform for education, outreach, and a call to action for those who want to get involved in addressing homelessness.
In addition, Dr. Leung participates in Wound Walk OC, a street medicine initiative that helps the unhoused population in Perris Hill Park in the city of San Bernardino as well as other areas. This program focuses on addressing immediate medical needs, such as treating wounds, infections and other health conditions that often go untreated in homeless communities.
When asked what motivates him to volunteer, Dr. Leung speaks candidly about the sense of privilege he feels. “As I work in this space, I become more aware of the privileges I have grown up with,” he shares. “Even though I had to work hard, I still recognize the opportunities and support I’ve had that others have not.”
It is this combination of compassion and an understanding of his own privileges that pushes Dr. Leung to take action. “I’m motivated to bless others because I can,” he said. For Dr. Leung, volunteering is not only a way to help others but also a way to live out his values of gratitude and service.
The Power of Volunteering: More Than Just Giving Back
Dr. Leung’s volunteer work is a testament to the power of individual action. His work is a reminder that, even in the face of overwhelming challenges, compassionate individuals can make a meaningful difference.
The work Dr. Leung and his team accomplish with street medicine not only helps those in crisis but also serves as a model for others to follow. By leading with compassion, Dr. Leung has shown that volunteering can be a transformative experience—not just for those served, but also for those who serve.