GSDM Students Serve as Educators and Role Models at the Yawkey Club

The GSDM Chapter of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA), in collaboration with CHP Oral Health Promotion Director Kathy Lituri, held its annual Give Kids a Smile event at the Yawkey Boys and Girls Club of Roxbury on March 23. Jenny Lorenzo DMD 13 played a major role in organizing the 19 ASDA students who volunteered.

More than 100 children of the Yawkey Club, who range in age from elementary to high school ages, attended this event. The fair featured the tried and true passport format with at least two GSDM students at each station, where they taught the children about oral health issues including brushing and flossing, health eating, consequences of tobacco and oral piercings, tooth protectors, dental careers, and the importance of teeth. The children visited each station to have their passports stamped and in addition there was an arts and crafts station where they could make a dental craft.

GSDM students were encouraged to volunteer in order to have the opportunity to not only interact with children of all ages, but to also share their experiences and expertise. Lituri also pointed out that the dental students may serve as role models to the children and encourage them to do well in school and seek a higher education.

Photos are available on facebook and flickr.