The ADA’s charitable activities entered 2003 with a new name and structure called the ADA Foundation.
The ADA Foundation, which comprises the former ADA Health Foundation, the ADA Relief Fund, The ADA Endowment and Assistance Fund Inc. and The ADA Emergency Fund Inc., was launched on Jan. 1. The ADA House of Delegates approved the merger at annual session in October 2002.
"Combining our charitable efforts will give the ADA a more streamlined approach for marketing and carrying out its charitable activities," said Dr. Anthony Volpe, president of the Foundation board of directors. "This merger will help us enhance our strategic ties with the ADA and help bring attention to the Foundation’s mission."
"Relief efforts for dentists in need will continue to follow the same process under the Foundation’s new Charitable Assistance Program arm," said Dr. Charles Procini, CAP committee chair.
"We will still be here to respond in times of catastrophe or to help a dentist through a personal crisis," said Dr. Procini. "Dentists who need assistance will still apply at the local level, and their state and the ADA will combine their efforts to offer financial aid.
"We also continue to offer scholarships for aspiring dentists, dental assistants, dental hygienists and dental laboratory technicians and minority scholarships as well," he added.
"This merger is patterned after a similar situation in California at the CDA," said Dr. James Bramson, ADA executive director. "It should help us greatly to consolidate our solicitation efforts, develop consistent and clear messages to donors about our overall charitable activities and allow the Foundation to broaden its mission and purpose.
"This year will be an important one for the Foundation; the merger will take place and we will begin to focus in earnest on a national endowment to support dental education."
