Hertzberg’s Heroes: Vol. I, Issue XI
Ira Freeman, Community Pharmacist
Welcome to the final Hertzberg’s Heroes of 2019! Every month, Team Hertzberg has highlighted an organization or individual who exemplifies heroism through their dedication to making life better for the San Fernando Valley. Have a Hero to suggest for 2020? Submit your idea to Senator.Hertzberg@sen.ca.gov!
Ira Freeman is not only a well-established small business owner in the Valley; he is also deeply rooted in the communities he serves. He has owned and served as the pharmacist at Key Pharmacy since it opened in 1964. After earning his degree from Columbia University, Ira established himself as a Pharmacist in the San Fernando Valley and has worked around the clock ever since, serving both his clients and the broader community.
Ira is one of the founding members of Valley Community Clinic, now known as Valley Community Healthcare, when they opened their doors in 1970. He was the pharmacist that dispensed all of their in-house medication and, up until just a few years ago, Ira spent every Thursday and Saturday volunteering at the clinic. In the 1980’s, Valley Community Healthcare became a free and anonymous site for HIV testing, a cause that Ira still supports as an annual participant in the Los Angeles AIDS Walk. In 2012, Ira was honored for his many years of service to Valley Community Healthcare and his legacy still has a strong impact as the clinic has recently expanded to serve students at LA Valley College.
As a pharmacist, he is invested in serving his community, regardless of income, and has served Californians on MediCal for many years. Ira is an active volunteer for many community organizations; he serves thanksgiving and Christmas dinners at LA Family Housing, supports local women’s political organizations, and formerly served as the president of Sun Valley Chamber of Commerce. He participates in pharmacy organizations at the local, state, and federal level and is well known as a strong advocate for community pharmacies. Whether through his work or volunteerism, Ira Freeman is a truly impactful leader in the San Fernando Valley and beyond.
