Many dental schools have integrated community-based outreach into their programs where dental students provide dental care directly at community sites.
Serving as a bridge to the Nashville community
When I started at Meharry Medical College, I decided to dedicate my time at the first volunteer event they hosted: the Mt. Zion Back-to-School Event. We provided 38 free screenings and care to both children and adults. From this moment on, I was inspired to continue my journey in serving those less fortunate than myself.
How my childhood influenced my need to pay it forward
I grew up on an acre of land with fruit trees, a massive vegetable garden and just a few animals to care for. While it may sound like I grew up with a luxury many lack, the reality is that my family of 14 was hardly scraping by. We used public help services from time to time, although my parent’s philosophy was to “only take what you need.”
Creating a community of smiles
During middle school, I participated in my neighborhood’s Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program in the San Francisco Bay Area. The program was designed to encourage younger individuals to take charge of their moral and intellectual growth, while contributing to the well-being of society at the same time.
Bridging the gap between health care disparities
This summer after my first year of dental school, I had the opportunity to intern at Bridging the Gaps, a community-based summer internship where health care students work with underserved communities in Philadelphia and gain insight into factors that affect health.
Serving together, six feet apart
Once a month, I used to walk from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine down Washington Street to the New England Center and Home for Veterans to serve dinner. Although the vaccine offers new hope, in-person outreach is still on hold for Tufts ASDA. Most dental students enjoy giving back.
Hunger to Hope: District 4 provides over 5,000 meals to New Yorkers
ASDA District 4 leadership brainstormed ways to help New Yorkers as COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the city.