Our Smiles Nonprofit

My name is Dione Smith and I am Birmingham, Alabama native currently living in Washington, D.C. I am employed as the Coordinator of Internal & External Scholarships at an HBCU and have always had a passion for helping others. After deciding to get some much needed dental work in 2014 and finishing the work by getting my braces removed in 2019, it reminded me just how important maintaining good dental health is. It came to me that so many people in the Black community are suffering from poor dental health because they lack the financial resources. The Black community has suffered from systemic racism in a number of ways. Dental awareness is extremely under served in our community. Restoring our dental health can also aid in combating overall health conditions in our community. Researchers have confirmed that poor dental health leads to over 120 health conditions which include diabetes and cancer. Taking this initiative can be the catalyst for reversing health conditions that we have been subjected to for years. My goal is to start a non profit organization focused solely on restoring smiles in the Black community. My organization will provide financial assistance for dental cleanings, implants, dentures, braces, etc. for Black families and services will not be limited to low income families only. A variety of socioeconomic groups will be welcomed. The goal of my campaign will cover the legal expenses needed to trademark the name, establish a 501c, guidance on how to obtain government funding, and a legal attorney to protect the organization.  There is no amount too big or too small! Your support in my vision to restore smiles in the black community will truly open the door for so many great things. Please know that I am a woman of integrity and this campaign is for the people. Feel free to share my vision and encourage anyone you may know to support this amazing cause!