Just one way Charity Ball proceeds are used
Members of Beta Tau Delta assisted with dental screenings at the Jefferson Elementary School Dec. 4 by escorting children to and from classrooms. In addition to assisting the local I-Smile™ coordinator, the organization also provides monetary funding for the program.
The screenings are provided by I-Smile, a dental home initiative program that helps Iowa’s children connect with dental services. The program was created by the Iowa Department of Public Health, the Iowa Department of Human Services, the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, and the Iowa Dental Association.
I-Smile uses a team approach that includes dentists, dental hygienists, physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, physician assistants, and dietitians. The program can provide oral screenings, education, anticipatory guidance, and preventive services as needed.
Local I-Smile coordinator Angie Halfwassen, a licensed dental hygienist, works under Public Health supervision with schools in nine counties, including Calhoun, Emmet, Greene, Hamilton, Humboldt, Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Webster, and Wright to help implement dental requirements. Pictured is Beta Tau Delta member Cassie Dozier (right) observing as Halfwassen (seated) screens children in Jefferson for possible dental problems.
Halfwassen’s major focus is to improve the dental support system for families. She screens children at the schools and can assist families in getting follow-up dental care for their children as needed.
In addition to the I-Smile program, Beta Tau Delta helps fund a multitude of other programs and projects for Greene County youth through various fundraisers, including the Beta Tau Delta Virtual Charity Ball. More information about this year’s Virtual Ball and donation forms can be found at The Printer’s Box, Fudges Flowers, Addie’s, Ben Franklin, Royal Jewelry, and Homestead Coffee and Bakery. Contributions can be sent to Anita Van Horn, 102 E. State Street in Jefferson.
