The Greater Bay Area Dental Society (GBADS) based in San Francisco, California is actively engaged in Community Outreach projects throughout the entire year. The organization has a thriving network of community partners, including schools, churches, civic organizations, social organizations, and the University of California San Francisco Dental School (UCSFDS). The members participate in career fairs and health fairs all over the city. Some of the society’s most successful relationships have been established with the local chapter of the 100 Black Men, and local AIDS organizations. Community health education is the cornerstone of the GBADS program initiatives, with emphasis not only on children and youth, but also on educating the parents and guardians.

All members have an “open-door” policy when it comes to student mentoring. The members often invite college students and dental students into their offices. They also sponsor interested students to attend the society’s general meetings. Additionally, the GBADS hosts “A Day at the Races Scholarship Fundraiser” for the dental students. Each year, the popular event is held at the race track’s Jockey Club, and is attended by the dentists, dental students, and other community supporters. Not only does the event raise money for deserving dental students, it also gives the dentists and students a chance to get to know each other better. The UCSF Student National Dental Association Chapter is very active with the GBADS.

Most recently, the society has begun discussions with the Dean and administrators at the SCSF Dental School to increase the number of underrepresented minorities in the school. Together they are working to re-establish a strategy for the active recruitment and admission of African American students.

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