At Smiles Movement, we are proud to provide care in underserved communities while also offering opportunities for volunteers to grow and learn. Our programs not only deliver much-needed dental care but also create meaningful experiences for those interested in dentistry and global health. Clara, a dedicated volunteer from South Carolina, shares her journey with us across two countries—Peru and Ecuador.
First Experience: Volunteering in Peru
Clara joined us for her first volunteer dental clinic trip in May of last year. In Peru, she immediately immersed herself in the work of supporting families who otherwise have limited access to oral healthcare. From helping organize clinics to shadowing doctors, Clara experienced firsthand what it means to serve in a community-focused setting. Her time in Peru left a lasting impression and motivated her to return for another opportunity to give back.
Returning to Ecuador: A Hands-On Opportunity
This year, Clara traveled with us to Riobamba, Ecuador, where she joined another Smiles Movement clinic. Here, her experience became even more hands-on. “We filled some cavities, we extracted some teeth, and that is a really hands-on experience for me, which is why I think it’s my favorite station,” Clara explained. For volunteers like Clara, these direct patient care experiences are a core part of dental volunteer work, allowing them to contribute meaningfully while building skills that align with their career interests.
Building Skills Beyond Dentistry
While dental care is at the heart of our work, volunteers like Clara also take part in supporting logistics and community engagement. Clara enjoyed helping set up clinic areas, ensuring everything ran smoothly for patients and staff. She also appreciated the road trips to reach remote communities, an important part of bringing dental care to areas where it is most needed. These tasks highlight the collaborative spirit of Smiles Movement and the importance of every role in making clinics successful. Volunteers often note how experiences like these provide access to health services where none previously existed.
Why Volunteer Dental Clinics Matter
Clara’s story reflects why we believe so strongly in the impact of our volunteer programs. Each volunteer dental clinic is a chance to serve families who often lack access to care, while also providing volunteers with eye-opening experiences in global health. For students like Clara, these moments strengthen not only dental skills but also a deeper understanding of community needs, teamwork, and cultural exchange. Stories like hers demonstrate why our work continues to make a lasting impact.
Opportunities for Future Volunteers
Clara’s experience demonstrates the value of pre-dental volunteer opportunities. Students and aspiring dental professionals who participate in our programs gain exposure to clinical environments, mentorship from practicing dentists, and cultural immersion in Latin American communities. These opportunities prepare volunteers for their future careers while making a real difference for patients.
Join the Smiles Movement to Promote Oral Health
Clara’s testimonial is just one of many that show the impact of our volunteer clinics. When you join Smiles Movement, you help deliver care to underserved communities while building your own skills and experiences. You can support this mission by exploring our Smiles brochures and sharing them with others.
Even more, you can directly assist communities in need by becoming a monthly donor. For less than one coffee a month, you can make an impact in low-income communities.
