Smiles Change Lives (SCL),Kansas City, Mo, is seeking upwards of 200 additional volunteerorthodontists to join its nationwide program to provide pro bonoorthodontic care to children in need. Orthodontists are especiallyneeded in the Detroit; Pensacola, Fla; Baton Rouge, La; Seattle; and SanDiego areas. The organization has seen record numbers of applicationsfrom low-income families in the last few years, especially in citiesespecially hard hit by the economic downturn.

“Since our national expansion in 2010, we have received applicationsfrom kids in all 50 states. It’s becoming more evident every day asapplication rates increase in certain cities, that the economy has takenits toll on working-class families whose children desperately needbraces,” said Andrea Umbreit, director of marketing and communicationsfor SCL.

Orthodontic practices interested in joining Smiles Change Livesdetermine how many pro bono cases they would like to treat each year andthe charity conducts a thorough application and screening process forapplicants. Only those youth who meet all program guidelines, showmotivation, and have the greatest need are approved for the program.