The East Contra Costa County Chapter of the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation is once again accepting applications from local children for its orthodontic scholarships. Students are encouraged to submit a complete application by September 30 for consideration this fall.
Applications received after the September 30 deadline will be considered in our spring application drive which ends on March 30. Applications can be found under the “About Us” tab at www.sheffieldortho.com.
Dr. Sheffield founded this chapter of Smile for a Lifetime in 2011 as a way to pay it forward in the community. Since 2011, more than 70 local children have received the gift of their own best smile and have been awarded orthodontic scholarships at no cost to them or their families.
Dr. Sheffield is very appreciative of the nine member board of directors who carefully reviews each application, and is responsible for awarding the orthodontic scholarships. Scholarships are awarded to deserving local children whose families are unable to pay for braces. The application process is competitive, and the board is tasked with identifying six new recipients every spring and fall. Students not chosen may reapply in subsequent rounds.
In addition to the board of directors, there are numerous community members who share our passion for these kids. From teachers and youth leaders who encourage students to apply for the scholarship, to the numerous local dentists who provide services to the recipients while they are in Dr. Sheffield’s orthodontic care.
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants are generally between the ages of 11 and 18, have orthodontic needs and financial hardship (most qualify for free or reduced lunch at school), and live in our community. The board will consider other situations, such as a family that has a large financial burden from medical expenses incurred by another family member. Because this is a scholarship, the student’s grades, community service and letters of recommendation are also considered by the board of directors.
The foundation encourages each applicant to share ways they can use their time and talents to pay it forward.
The mission of Smile for a Lifetime is to create self-confidence, inspire hope, and change the lives of children in our community in a dramatic way. The gift of a healthy and confident smile cannot be taken for granted, and the expectation is that recipients use this lifelong gift to better themselves and our community.
Dr. Sheffield plans to continue to award twelve orthodontic scholarships each year. Additional information can be found at www.s4l.org. Applications for Dr. Sheffield’s chapter of Smile for a Lifetime may be obtained by going to his website at www.sheffieldortho.com.
The S4L Foundation is always looking for deserving candidates. Help us give our community another reason to smile.
