In Central Oregon, economically disadvantaged children's graduation rates are almost 8% lower than those who aren’t economically disadvantaged. Gaining access to healthcare is vital in achieving health equity across central Oregon. There is a strong correlation between oral health and overall health and well-being. If these issues are left untreated, attention deficits and behavioral issues are more common in schools. In addition, concerns related to speaking, sleeping, and eating can be exacerbated (California Society of Pediatric Dentistry and California Dental Association). The populations most adversely affected by oral health problems are low-income (World Health Organization, 2012). Unequal access to healthcare and affordability of healthcare is an issue throughout Central Oregon.
"After ASK funded my braces, I found an inner strength I didn't know I had. I worked hard to keep my grades up and volunteer four hours a month, and little by little, I felt like there was new hope. Eventually, I graduated from high school, and I am now finishing my surgery technician certification and working as a CNA in a surgery department. I am determined to get into Nursing School next."
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- This project aimed to build self-esteem, grades and community involvement through orthodontics for kids in the Central Oregon Community.
- The program was implemented by A Smile for Kids in Redmond, Oregon.
- This project aimed to build self-esteem, grades and community involvement through orthodontics for kids in the Central Oregon Community.
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The project attempted to:- Provide children with higher self-esteem.
- Help youth graduate high school and maintain good academic standing.
- Support youth in obtaining life skills to prepare for a successful future.
- Provide oral health insurance and support good oral health.
16 people were served through this project.
100% of participants reported increased self-esteem.
All participants are on track to graduate and volunteered once a month.
Through volunteering, the 16 participants were able to find things they were passionate about and used their passions to benefit the community.
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- ASK was able to collaborate with social services, the health care system, and community-based organizations to advocate for marginalized populations in Central Oregon.
- This project was limited in scope and would provide benefits to rural communities like Gilchrist, La Pine, and Culver Schools.
- Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ASK closed its practices for a few months.
Participants who wouldn’t have been able to afford oral health care received important health services.
All participants were assigned a dental provider.
All 16 youth are on track to graduate high school, which is related to improved health outcomes and future opportunities.
The volunteer work enabled youth to connect with local professionals and provided opportunities to improve our community.