Domestic Violence Program Wins Prestigious 2001 Associations Advance America Summit Award
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Contact: Eric Nelson
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry ®
5401 World Dairy Drive
Madison, WI 53718
PH: 608.222.8583
FAX: 608.222.9540
E-mail: pr@aacd.com
Web: www.aacd.com
Domestic Violence Program Wins Prestigious 2001 Associations Advance America Summit Award |
July 19, 2001, Madison, WI - The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) located in Madison, WI has won the Award of Excellence and the prestigious Summit Award in the 2001 Associations Advance America Awards program, a national competition sponsored by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), Washington, D.C. Each year, only eight programs nationally are selected to receive the annual Summit Award.
The AACD received the award for its program for survivors of domestic violence, Give Back a Smile™ (GBAS). The Give Back A Smile program was established by the AACD out of a desire to give something back to the community, specifically, to help survivors of unfortunate circumstances related to domestic abuse. Through this program, AACD members volunteer their time and talents in restoring the smiles of survivors of domestic violence who have suffered damage to, or lost, their front teeth due to abusive attacks. Through the program, the AACD's goal is to help restore the appearance and self-esteem levels of those who have been abused.
AACD President Dr. Arthur Chal of Phoenix, AZ says, "The Give Back A Smile program is an opportunity for AACD members to contribute to others in need with our skills, compassion, and ability to create smiles. By doing so, we can restore a smile and also help someone rebuild their life." How the program works:
- Domestic violence survivors who have suffered dental injuries during a violent attack can call the Give Back A Smile national toll free number, 800.773.GBAS (4227)
- The survivor then undergoes screening sessions with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence staff and a local counselor.
- Eligibility includes that the injury is to the front teeth and is a result of domestic violence from a spouse or significant other.
Additionally, applicants must be out of the relationship for at least one year.
If eligible, they are then referred to AACD's Give Back A Smile program for a referral.
The survivor is then referred to a local member dentist who makes the final determination of eligibility and, if approved, begins treatment.
For more information on the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry®, contact Eric Nelson at 800.543.9220 or via e-mail at pr@aacd.com. For more information regarding the Give Back A Smile program, contact Erin Roberts 800.543.9220 or via e-mail at givebackasmile@aacd.com.
Survivors wishing to apply for the program should call the national hotline at 800.773.GBAS (4227).
