Academy of LDS Dentists

Help Us Fund Our Unmet Humanitarian Needs

The Academy of LDS Dentists has been involved in humanitarian efforts for over 20 years. Several years ago we felt the need to establish a foundation to accept financial contributions to help meet humanitarian needs throughout the world. To date we have not solicited contributions because the Academy was able to respond to humanitarian requests/needs with existing funds.

The Academy is responding to increased needs worldwide. Our activities are too numerous to fully detail, but I would like to briefly outline current needs (more information is available upon request):

1. Equipping & staffing a dental clinic in Honduras: A Provo non-dentist has spear-headed quite a project in Honduras and has come to the Academy for support. The project is desperately needed, inspired and well organized. Toys, clothing, medical equipment & supplies and dental services (and a refurbished dental school clinic) are all part of this project. We are trying to raise $20,000 in support of this project. A missionary couple is needed!! (If you know a dentist who speaks Spanish who might be receptive to a 1 ½ yr. mission call, please contact Jerry Summerhays, 801 268-4436.)

2. The Academy is establishing a loan program much like the Church’s Perpetual Education Fund to make loans to LDS dentists in 3rd world countries who cannot afford to establish a clinic and simply have nowhere to practice. The Academy already contributes to the Perpetual Education Fund to help fund the education of LDS dental students needing financial support.

3. Establishing dental clinics in 3rd world dental schools near MTCs (similar to the clinic established by the Academy @San Marcos in Lima, Peru.) The Academy’s goals:

• Improve the dental education of educators, dental students and practicing dentists in 3rd world countries.
• Delivering needed dental care to missionaries in the MTC’s & serving locally.
• Promoting the name of the Church & facilitating local missionary efforts.

4. Educational Missions. Imparting practical knowledge is the most efficient and profound way we can make a difference! Gordon Christensen is an incredible resource & catalyst in this area. The Academy is increasing its support of educational expeditions/seminars. Specialists are often needed! Additionally, we respond to requests for educational materials from dental missionaries serving worldwide.

Please consider giving us your support!

To submit a donation, please do the following:

1. Download and fill out our donation form (pdf)

2. Mail completed form and donation to:
Academy of LDS Dentists Humanitarian Foundation
136 Harman Continuing Education Building
Provo , Utah 84602