Throughout the years, local dentists and hygienists have volunteered their time and talents at the Union Gospel Mission (UGM) No-Fee Dental Clinic. It’s painful to even imagine living with an abscessed tooth because you don’t have the money to pay a dentist. “We are serving the working poor and others with low income. I see the dentists offering a very real service to people who otherwise could not afford it,” says Skip Steffen, Executive Director.
Opened in 2000, the state-of-the art clinic utilizes two operatories with a separate hygiene station. Currently, 16 dentists and five hygienists make up the volunteer rotation. Over the past year 1,498 individuals received care with a total of 4,060 procedures. That translates to approximately $373,289.00 in services. “The best part is seeing patients as they walk out the door – pain free!” exclaims Shelley Case, Clinic Manager. “It is very satisfying to be able to bring my specialized skills to people in my own community,” adds Dr. Greg Psaltis, a retired pediatric dentist.
Dr. John Deviny, a retired general dentist and teacher, previously volunteered in the clinic. “I found great satisfaction and fulfillment in volunteering to help patients unlike my practice population,” he notes. Now his volunteerism involves assisting the clinic with screening and medication, recruitment, promotion and other tasks as needed. “It’s the best job I ever had,” reports Dr. Deviny.
The clinic provides emergency services to Thurston County as well as Mason, Lewis, and Grays Harbor County residents.
UGM runs a vision clinic where people receive an eye health exam and glasses when necessary. Professional optometrists volunteer for these services. The Olympia Host Lions, in cooperation with other area Lions Clubs, pay for the lenses in the glasses. Local businesses donate frames.
Annual UGM Fundraising Concert Featuring Dentists!
Look for the spring 2024 fundraising event at The Washington Center. The Jazz Senators traditionally anchor this delightful montage of performances. In addition to professional singers and other entertainers, a handful of dentists rehearse and offer up song and dance for several numbers.
“Since I am not a professional performer, I love the chance to be on stage while supporting such a worthwhile organization,” says Dr. Psaltis. You are sure to be impressed and leave with a smile.
Volunteers make a world of difference.
For Additional Information
Union Gospel Mission No-Fee Dental Clinic
ougm.org
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS