A Smile For Kids

A Smile for Kids looks to impact Oregon communities in several different ways. The most apparent and immediate impact shows in the fact that we seek out under-resourced kids with orthodontic needs who suffer from severe self-esteem issues and bullying. Through partnerships with 60+ orthodontists in Oregon, we provide access to braces and maxillofacial surgery where there was otherwise no access. What do the kids contribute? In return, we ask three critical things of the kids during the two-year treatment: • Provide at least 4 hours of community service each month • Keep grades at "C" or above • Keep all orthodontist appointments As a result of this, our program delivers 1000 community service hours on average to service organizations in Oregon - giving the kids a chance to develop resilience and added self-esteem as well as explore career options. The higher GPA standard results in ASK kids having a High School graduation rate of 94%, lifting the overall graduation rate for Oregon – which is currently at a 79% statewide average. Through all the facets of our program, we aim to: Impact high school graduation rate in Oregon positively from its current 79%, one family at a time. Increase awareness around bullying and how all types of bullying lower the victim's contributions to our communities. Improve the family's overall health by introducing the kids to health services and professionals who can help them focus on healthy habits Grow participation in Oregon's community service organizations from kids who may not otherwise have been exposed to volunteerism. By uncovering their strength and using it for good we hope to help create resilient, empowered kids who feel connected to the world and who will stand up for other bullied kids. It's never the victim's fault that they get bullied; we just aim to help remove a few barriers that may make life more difficult than it has to be for middle- and high school kids.