The day began with a mantra they all knew.
“I am quick. I am sharp. I am bright. I am smart. I am rich and good looking, and I am a major blessing. Now point to your neighbor and say, ‘That’s you.’”
The nearly 350 dentists, dental residents, hygienists and volunteers cheered and then got to work. More than 150 children were expected to pass through the clinic at the St.Louis University Center for Advanced Dental Education Feb. 3 as part of the national Give Kids A Smile kickoff event.
For many of the volunteers, it was their first time. For some of the old-timers, this will have been their 22nd year donating their time.
Give Kids A Smile is the flagship access to-care program administered by the ADA Foundation where nearly 6,500 dentists and 20,000 dental team members volunteer annually to provide underserved children with free oral health care services and education. ADA Foundation, ADA and tripartite leaders joined with representatives from national sponsors Colgate-Palmolive and Henry Schein Inc. to commemorate the day in St. Louis.
Source: Give Kids A Smile comes home to St. Louis / American Dental Association