A colorful dental van makes its way to local elementary schools on weekdays, transforming into a mobile clinic where children receive their first-ever cleanings, X-rays, and fillings. Behind the scenes, the Texas Pre-Dental Society works tirelessly year-round to support this initiative. On April 9, the group held its third annual student auction, which raised money for Kids Tooth Team Outreach, a nonprofit that provides free pediatric dental care to underserved communities.
The auction featured items donated by corporate sponsors and handmade contributions from society members. The event raised $1,771, with 81 attendees showing their support. Sam Aassar, a health and society junior and the organization’s philanthropy director, explained that the nonprofit requires about $200,000 annually to keep its operations running. This amount is primarily funded through grants and fundraisers like the auction.
Aassar emphasized the importance of the initiative, noting that it addresses a critical yet often overlooked issue. “Cavities are a silent epidemic for children,” he said, highlighting how the mobile clinic is making a real difference. Volunteers working on the van not only provide care but also gain valuable hands-on experience. Texas Pre-Dental Society members typically volunteer in teams of five, with about 20 students participating over the course of two days.
While the van is staffed by both volunteer doctors and dental students, Aassar pointed out that the society prioritizes pre-dental student involvement. “It’s important because, as aspiring dentists, learning to give back is an essential part of becoming a good practitioner,” said Mia Miguel, a nutrition senior who donated a handmade crochet bolero to the auction. “This is a fun way for us to dip our toes into philanthropy.”
The auction’s donations included corporate gifts from brands like Poppi and Pluckers, but the focus was on handmade items and services created by society members. Aassar believes the event offers multiple benefits. “It’s a win-win for our students and our nonprofit because many of our donations are student-made. We encourage members to practice their manual dexterity skills, which are important for dental school applications,” he explained.
By showcasing their talents and hobbies, students not only contribute to the cause but also enhance their dental school applications. “It’s a great way to demonstrate your skills and creativity,” Aassar said, adding that these experiences are valuable stepping stones as members pursue careers in dentistry.
