Service

• Academy Sponsored

• Other Organizations

Overview: The Academy has been serving several orphanages in Guadalajara, Mexico since 1986. Guadalajara is an ideal setting for humanitarian service. It involves donating one’s time and expense to treating underprivileged children. Whether you have never been involved in humanitarian dental service, or have participated in other dental service projects you would find this is a great experience, without going to a third world country.

At a minimum, a dental team would need a dentist and an assistant. Some of the teams that have gone down before have included dentists with their families, or consisted of a dentist and a staff member who assisted him/her. It would be best if someone in the group spoke Spanish, but we have tried to design the program to accommodate those who do not speak the language so that they can be successful.

The treatment of the children involves examinations, cleanings, fluoride treatments and restorative and limited surgical procedures if needed. This treatment is of great benefit to the needy children and has provided significant satisfaction and a bonding experience for the participating dental teams.

Many of the teams have combined their visit with gathering donated items that the children or the orphanages could use. Clothing, personal items, soap, and school supplies have been a great help to the orphanages. There have been several Eagle Scout projects that have participated in gathering donations in conjunction with their visit also.

We would love to answer any questions you have and encourage you to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.

Requirements for Participation: A current and valid passport from your country of residence: US, Canadian, etc. The Mexican Government also requires a FM3 visa, which must be obtained at an official Mexican Consulate (Salt Lake City for example). The cost of the visa is $150-200.00 and must be renewed each year

Contact:

Dwayne and Donna Zobel
(307)220-0225 or
(712)281-0424
ddzdds@aol.com