Eagan Orthodontics, Southfield, Mich, Michigan’s first African-American orthodontic business, is celebrating its 56th anniversary by awarding 56 free sets of braces to metro Detroit charities and organizations. The campaign, called “Smiling in Metro Detroit,” will provide braces for those who need but can’t afford them.
At least 40 charities and organizations will each be awarded one or two sets of braces to give away to individuals in their constituent base. Some of the participants include Orchards Children’s Services, Big Brother Big Sisters of Metro Detroit, Alternative for Girls, and The Ndamukong Suh Family Foundation.
“My wife, Catherine, and I are passionate about helping other people become successful,” says J. Victor Eagan, DDS, MS (pictured), of Eagan Orthodontics. “Our family has always given back to the community, and we want to continue that legacy, especially during these tough economic times.”
The charities and organizations will be allowed to create their own criteria for identifying the individuals who will be awarded the braces. Once the individuals have been identified, along with two representatives from the selecting agency, they will be invited to the Eagan Orthodontics office for a personal presentation and to meet and greet the Eagan Orthodontics staff and family.
Eagan added, “We are very excited about this opportunity. A smile is universal. It is the one act of kindness that is appreciated in every culture around the world. Even more so, a beautiful smile is much to be desired. It can change a person’s life by building their confidence and enhancing their self-esteem.”
Eagan is the son of John P. Eagan, who was the first African-American orthodontist in Michigan and the third in the world.