Like many orthodontists, on occasion, I will choose to do some pro bono work for truly needy and deserving individuals on a case-by-case basis. In the beginning, I was not all too eager to learn about Smiles Change Lives (SCL), as I have been somewhat jaded by nonprofits in general in the past—specifically how they are funded, administered, and managed.
Since its inception over 14 years ago, I noted and watched SCL grow slowly across the nation, and now internationally as well. It is obvious why SCL has expanded: Its model is centered on a clear and simple mission of helping truly needy and deserving children with what I term a “handicapping” malocclusion. Perhaps, like me, if you have ever been involved with an access-to-care program, you may also have been disappointed to learn that some individuals were not truly “qualified” or failed to understand or appreciate the scope of program services. Or maybe you discovered a program to be without merit or integrity. This usually produces a difficult or uncomfortable scenario for all involved.
Granted, we volunteers do not perform services for accolades or attention. We do this simply because we are able and willing to give back in some small way.
Thus, when I am asked why I choose to be associated with SCL, my answer is three-fold:
1) I, too, share their mission;
2) I have been impressed with the talents, leadership, and vision of the organization to bring together those who truly need and deserve orthodontic services and those willing to provide them, and
3) I choose not to be involved in the screening process for financially eligibility (which I know from experience may be somewhat complicated).
Over the years, SCL has created a time-tested model that has proven to work effectively and efficiently, from the patient application process to recruitment of orthodontists and management of a communication and follow-up protocol that is responsive, accountable, and professional.
While no program is perfect, I sincerely believe SCL has effectively managed their limited budget and means as a nonprofit with a certain creativity, innovation, transparency, resourcefulness, work ethic, and enthusiasm—characteristics not typically used to describe a nonprofit. And to top it off, they are open and willing to work hard to continually improve and refine their systems to consistently promote a “win-win” for all.
For me, it makes more sense to partner with such a program than to stand alone and do it myself. I hope more of my colleagues will join me in supporting a great access-to-care program.
—Lisa A. Yurkiewicz, DMD, MS
