This summer, I have the incredible opportunity to volunteer with Volunteers Around the World (VAW) Global Health Alliances Dental Chapter at Virginia Tech on a two-week service trip to Cusco, Peru. Our mission? To provide free, accessible dental care to underserved communities in the region.

Many people in rural areas of Peru lack access to basic oral healthcare—something we often take for granted. Alongside a team of student interns, dentists, and local health professionals, I will be helping set up mobile dental clinics where we will perform:

Routine cleanings

Tooth extractions

Fillings and fluoride treatments

Oral hygiene education for children and families

In addition to hands-on clinical experience, we’ll also lead an Education Day at local schools to teach kids how to care for their teeth and build healthy habits for life.

How You Can Help:

This trip is not only an incredible learning experience—it’s a way to make a direct impact on global health. However, it comes with costs including travel, lodging, medical supplies, and clinic setup fees. I am fundraising to help cover these expenses and make this journey possible.

Whether you can give $5 or $50, every donation helps bring dental care to someone in need.

Trip Dates: June 16th 2025 - July 2nd 2025

Location: Cusco, Peru

Goal: $3,145

If you’re not able to donate, a simple share can go a long way. Thank you for supporting me, our team, and this life-changing mission. Together, we can help bring smiles to Peru—one patient at a time.

With gratitude,

Lillian Hart

Virginia Tech | VAW Global Dental Intern/Team Leader