Begin your journey in the Wild West city of Denver, Colorado. Originally founded by prospectors looking for gold in 1858, Denver has grown to be a dynamic city of diverse cultures. Volunteers spend the first day sightseeing and learning about the history and culture of Colorado.
On the second day, volunteers begin work with a thorough project briefing followed by 5 days working in the clinic. Currently, clinics in Colorado serve populations of children from KIPP Schools (Knowledge is Power) and from Place Bridge - a Denver Public School with a program specially designed for refugees in the metro area.
KIPP Schools: KIPP is a free public school with a track record of preparing students in underserved communities for success in college and in life. Eighty-five percent of KIPP students are from low-income families, who lack the resources to obtain dental care. GDR chose to partner with KIPP because we believe in the school's philosophy to empower children to be responsible for themselves and to inspire children to succeed academically and in life. Learn more about KIPP at: www.kipp.org.
Place Bridge: Place Bridge is a Denver Public School specially designed for refugees. There are 1,045 students who speak 30 different languages, representing 50 countries. Many of these children, who are newly located in the United States, have never seen a dentist. GDR would like to welcome these children and give them a head start to a healthy beginning here in the United States. Learn more about Place Bridge at: www.place.dpsk12.org.
After busy days at the clinic, evenings are spent with volunteers, enjoying the local culture and food. Following a week of hard work, volunteers have the option of spending the weekend in the mountains--taking in the dazzling aspen trees changing color, hiking or skiing (depending on the time of year).