America Smiles

Introduction

America Smiles is a nonprofit organization designated as a 501(c)(3) entity, focused on providing essential orthodontic services to youth and adolescents facing severe hardship or specific circumstances[3][4].

Mission

The mission of America Smiles centers on promoting access to life-changing orthodontic treatment for individuals who may not otherwise have the opportunity to receive it. This includes children in foster care and children of fallen soldiers, service members, law enforcement officers, and firefighters[2][3].

Eligibility and Services

Eligibility for America Smiles' programs includes:

• Students Overcoming Adversity: Students who have made a positive impact on themselves and others or have overcome significant challenges are considered for complimentary orthodontic treatment.
• Foster Care and Families of Service Members: Children in foster care and those whose parents are service members, including military, law enforcement, and firefighters, are automatically eligible for treatment[2].

How It Works

To receive treatment, nominations of deserving students can be submitted throughout the year. Each month, one student is selected by a panel of judges to receive full orthodontic treatment free of charge through a collaborative effort with Empower Orthodontics[2].

Nonprofit Status

America Smiles is recognized as a tax-exempt organization since February, aiming to support the dental needs of disadvantaged youth across the United States[4].