The best part of working with the Children's International Dental Project is the chance to combine a good time with a good deed. Each trip offers an opportunity to visit a foreign country, meet and take care of people in need of dental care, see the area and country – not as just a tourist – to expand your experiences and perhaps language skills. But, best of all, we have a great time and come away with many memorable experiences, sometimes life-altering.

Planning these special trips can be complex, but there are many ways that you can take part, either as an active, hands-on participant, or as a donor and supporter. Others are invited to come along to help in teaching children, and adults, how to brush and take care of their teeth, plus help in the cleaning and sterilization of instruments, assisting a dentist or managing the paperwork.

• Logistics
  When I started this I didn’t realize how involved it could get and how complicated the logistics could be, but I soon found out. It is imperative to have good, committed people “on the ground” helping to take care of the local arrangements, especially the first time you visit a country. That continued support is very important.

• Donations
  Your support for the organization would be most appreciated, and donations are accepted via the Pikes Peak Community Foundation, Attn: The Children’s International Dental Project, Post Office Box 1443, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1443. The full amount of your donation goes to the purchase of dental supplies and dental equipment.

• Volunteers
  If you would like to volunteer to go on an upcoming trip, your donation would include the cost of airfare and most ground expenses. Trips are limited to 16 people and comfort and accommodations depend on the country, where we are and what we are doing. As a dentist, I have all the instruments for examinations, extractions, and amalgam fillings. We have also started doing some (composite tooth colored) fillings only of front teeth, due to the amount of time required.