Joining an overseas volunteer service project is a unique opportunity to combine adventure with meaningful service. Global Dental Relief (GDR) understands that financial constraints can sometimes prevent passionate individuals from participating.
To help ensure that volunteers from all backgrounds have an opportunity to participate, GDR has a scholarship and financial aid program for volunteers. We offer two opportunities for financial assistance to make joining a GDR volunteer project more accessible.
1) Scholarship Program:
The 2026 Scholarship application window is closed. The application for our 2027 Scholarship Program will open in Fall of 2026. Check back here for updates, or call our office with any questions.
*If you are facing financial hardship and the cost of a GDR project in financially out of reach for you, please call our office to speak with one of our Project Coordinators.
Cranberry Scholarship ($1,000)
In partnership with CranberryUSA, GDR offers five $1,000 scholarships each year to pre-dental or pre-dental hygiene students.
For students, GDR clinics are a rewarding experience to gain hands-on exposure in the field of dentistry. GDR projects give students the opportunity to witness the power of restoring smiles while gaining experience and knowledge from licensed dentists.
This scholarship is awarded in two separate installments. Successful applicants will receive a $750 scholarship to be applied towards their GDR project expenses, as well as an additional $250 upon acceptance into dental or hygiene school.
GDR Scholarship ($1,000)
Not a student? No problem! Global Dental Relief believes everyone should have the opportunity to experience an adventure in service. For many, cost is the main barrier preventing them from joining an overseas volunteer program. To address this challenge, we encourage all volunteers who need financial assistance to apply, regardless of occupation or background.
2) GDR Matching Fund:
Additionally, Global Dental Relief has a volunteer matching fund to offset the cost of volunteering overseas.
So, how does it work? Volunteers host a fundraising campaign to collect financial donations, which are applied to their project fee. Then, GDR will match that fundraising campaign (up to $1,000). *Note that GDR has $5,000 available each calendar year for the matching fund. Matching funds are awarded on a first come, first serve basis.
Here are a few ideas on how to host a successful fundraising campaign:
- Visit a local service club (Rotary, Elks, Key Club, churches, etc.) and share details of your upcoming adventure.
- Host a fundraising drive on your birthday (or other meaningful holiday) requesting donations in place of gifts.
- Host a Social Media campaign. Share your journey on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and ask your friends, family and follows to support your upcoming adventure.
Upon request, Global Dental Relief will provide you with a detailed packet on how to host a successful fundraising campaign.
Interested in participating in GDR’s Volunteer Matching Fund? Call our office today for more information! This program is open to any volunteer joining a future GDR volunteer project.
** All scholarship and financial aid recipients are responsible for any remaining balances due to GDR, as well as round-trip international airfare.
