Thank you for your unwavering support of KinderSmile Foundation and its programs. We could not have accomplished the growth and impact that we have seen over the last 16 years without you, and we truly appreciate that.
We are excited to share our new venture, which will assure that the legacy of KinderSmile Foundation continues. This year we are delighted to introduce the KinderSmile Foundation Community Service Learning Program Scholarship, intended to increase and diversify the dental workforce, especially in public health and community dentistry settings, in order to facilitate increased access to oral health care. I respectfully welcome you to contribute to this campaign, whose goal is to raise $25,000 by June 1, 2024. Scholarship awards per student will range between $750-$2,500.
Our Community Service Learning Program (CSLP), gives students an opportunity to volunteer with KinderSmile Foundation. Students from high school to post graduate school garner comprehensive learning experience, guidance, and mentorship. Students develop leadership skills, broaden their knowledge, and actively contribute to the mission and goals of KinderSmile Foundation. CSLP interns and volunteers play a crucial role in improving oral health access for underserved communities and making a positive impact in the lives of at-risk children and their families.
Mentoring students and young leaders through our Community Service Learning Program has always been my treasured program of KinderSmile Foundation. As a sophomore at James Madison High School in Brooklyn NY, I encountered Dr. Joel Sendroff who took the time to mentor and guide me in this wonderful profession. I was honored and humbled, and to pay it forward, I established the CSLP. To date we have assisted, encouraged and mentored over 320 students, who have donated over 16,200 of community service hours in clinical, administrative, public health, and outreach positions. Proudly, over 70 of our student volunteers have been accepted to dental schools, and will enter the profession with the knowledge and awareness of public health needs surrounding access to oral health care.
One of our valued CSLP students this year, Maggie, wrote “One aspect that has particularly resonated with me is the sense of community at KinderSmile. The warm and welcoming nature of both the front desk staff and dental professionals has left a lasting impression on me. As I aspire to pursue a career in dentistry, I aim to emulate the supportive environment I’ve experienced at KinderSmile. Witnessing the unique ability of dental professionals to turn a child’s tears and frowns into smiles and laughter after a procedure has inspired me deeply— this is a practice I wholeheartedly strive to achieve in my future dental career.”
The mission of KinderSmile Foundation is to provide underserved children with access to comprehensive dental care and educate children and their families about the importance of dental hygiene. We envision a future where every child has access to a dentist, and preventable dental diseases are eradicated. In order to truly achieve expanded access to care and health equity, the number of dental professionals who are willing to give back and to work in public health settings and community dentistry has to increase.
I would like to invite you on the new endeavor of providing scholarships to our young motivated, talented and passionate students. These scholarships will show solidarity from the community to help defray their higher education costs. YOU can help KSF encourage, edify, and support them in their journeys.
Thank you in advance for considering a contribution to this program and helping us continue the legacy of service and giving back. #ItTakesAVillageKSF
