On weekdays, a colorfully painted dental van pulls into local elementary schools, transforming into a mobile clinic where children receive cleanings, x-rays and fillings — often for the first time. Behind the scenes, the Texas Pre-Dental Society fundraises year-round to keep the wheels turning. The organization held their third annual student auction benefiting their philanthropy on April 9.
The event featured items from corporate sponsors and handmade donations from members, all benefiting Kids Tooth Team Outreach, a nonprofit providing free pediatric dental care to underserved communities. Sam Aassar, health and society junior and the organization’s philanthropy director, said that the nonprofit requires $200,000 to run annually, funded by grants and fundraisers like the auction — which raised $1,771 from 81 attendees. Aassar said he values the program directly addressing an often overlooked issue.
“This nonprofit is very close to me … and it’s a very unique model,” Aassar said. “Especially because cavities are the silent epidemic for children.”