(l.-r.) Lou Altman, Bob Altman and Rick Altman
Though the communities they serve are different, every Akron Children’s regional health center shares a common goal: bringing care closer to home.
But for the health centers in North Canton and Portage County, there’s another special bond. They’ve both been made possible thanks to the generosity of the Altman family – Richard and Bobbi Altman, Lou and Christine Altman, and Jane and Michael Zoldan.
The brothers, Rick and Lou, are principals of A. Altman Company, which developed – and donated – Akron Children’s Health Center, North Canton prior to its opening in 2019. And when the opportunity arose to help with the hospital’s new health center in Portage County, they stepped up to the plate once more – offering to again donate the nearly $10 million facility to Akron Children’s.
“We are honored to support the children and families of Portage County through this donation,” said Rick and Lou. “The new Akron Children’s Health Center, Portage is bringing important services together under one roof – and we are proud to have played a small role in its development.”
In June, Akron Children’s opened the facility between Kent and Ravenna, which brings together a variety of pediatric services in one convenient location. In recognition of their generosity, the building’s entrance was named The Altman Family Welcome Center.
“The donation of these beautiful facilities is a prime example of how philanthropy has a direct impact on the health and wellness of our children and their families,” said Grace Wakulchik, president and CEO of Akron Children’s. “Thank you so much, Rick, Lou and the entire A. Altman Company for your generosity.”
The new 29,500-square-foot building is home to Akron Children’s Pediatrics, as well as pediatric specialties including outpatient rehabilitation services (physical, occupational and speech therapies) and Quick Care, which gives families immediate access for the treatment of minor injuries and illness.
“Working on projects like these health centers is such a joy for us,” said Lou. “We have such respect for the hospital and its mission, so making the donation of these buildings was the right thing to do for our kids and our community.”
