Founded in 2005 by Ocean Media CEO Mike Robertson and his wife Kim, Share a Smile's goal is to enrich the lives of Southern California's underprivileged and abused or neglected children by providing orthodontia and sometimes major dental work to those in need. In essence, we give our participants, many for the first time, a chance to smile with confidence. 100% of all donations go directly towards helping children.
“It is tough to imagine growing up afraid to speak or even smile for fear of being ridiculed,” said Mike and Kim Robertson, the Share A Smile founders.“Unfortunately, this is a reality for many underprivileged youths, who lack of resources to get the dental care needed to remedy their situation. This can have long-term and lasting effects on a child’s confidence and self-esteem.”
Since the charity began, more than 100 children received the gift of being able to smile with self-assurance again. Share A Smile also just began their first official fundraising campaign because of growing interest from the community.
To be considered for placement in the program, candidates need to be examined by a participating dentist/orthodontist, who then determines whether major dental/orthodontic services are required to correct a severe malformation, misshapenness, or other irregularity. Share a Smile Applicants must be without dental insurance or have coverage deemed insufficient to pay for the necessary work, over a two-year period.
Southern California dental professionals currently volunteering their time and services are Dr. Mark F. Maxwell, Dr. Matt Nisco, Dr. Noland Soo, and Dr. Steven P. Underwood. Members of the Share A Smile Board of Directors include Mike and Kim Robertson, Michael Klarin, Stephanie Filipponio, Ron Luebbert and Clintton Fleschere.
Learn more about our charity dental work through Share a Smile
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