Why Smiles Are Worthwhile?
I was inspired to establish my Community Service Initiative, Smiles Are Worthwhile, after an experience I had at Cahaba Valley Health Care, a nonprofit organization that provides free dental services to those in financial need.
While I was there volunteering, a homeless man was able to receive free dental care for pain he had been having in his mouth for a long time. He was so thankful to be there, and a visible wave of relief washed over him as his pain subsided. I was deeply moved when I realized the life-changing impact that Cahaba Valley Health Care was making in his life, as well as the lives of many others. They are bringing hope to those who are hopeless.
Before that moment, I had never realized how many people were struggling with dental health issues, but couldn’t afford treatment, and how negatively these issues impacted their everyday lives. Poor dental health can lead to speech difficulties, mental health issues, malnutrition, increased risk of heart disease and stroke, pain, infection, and even death.



I have since learned that according to the American Dental Association, the state of Alabama is experiencing a dental crisis, with the nation’s second-lowest ratio of dentists per population. Additionally, a study released by the Alabama Department of Public Health in 2022 found that nearly half of Alabama's kindergarteners and 3rd graders suffer from tooth decay. In response to the limited access to care, I wanted to be able to help make a change in Alabama regarding its dental health. This is what motivated me to start my Community Service Initiative, Smiles Are Worthwhile, which is focused on dental education, advocacy, and service.
I partner with and support Cahaba Valley Health Care in order to further their mission of helping those in financial need receive vital dental services. In 2025, I began a collaboration with the Alabama Dental Association’s More For Your Smile Alabama campaign, which has proposed legislation to improve dental insurance benefits in Alabama. Additionally, through my Grin to Win campaign, I have prioritized educating elementary school students on the importance of good dental hygiene and healthy smiles. I want all of Alabama, regardless of demographics, to feel that their smiles are worthwhile.

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