Surgical Missions
Alliance for Smiles organizes and sends teams to under-served countries for medical missions that last from one to two weeks.
The team is comprised of approximately 12 medical volunteers, supported by approximately 4 non-medical volunteers. During a typical mission 50 to 80 children receive free treatment for cleft lip and palate anomalies.
The AfS team works side-by-side with local medical practitioners to exchange ideas on proper medical techniques and procedures, as well as to provide follow-up care
Become Part of a Medical Mission
Our missions are made possible by dedicated surgeons, nurses, dentists, anesthesiologists, speech specialists, photographers, translators, coordinators, and volunteers who share a commitment to helping children in need.
Whether you provide medical expertise or operational support, your skills can help bring hope, healing, and smiles to children and families around the world.
Upcoming Missions
Volunteer Positions
Medical Volunteers
- Plastic Surgeon (with cleft experience)
- Anesthesiologist (with pediatric experience)
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (with pediatric experience)
- Pediatrician (with current PALS) OR Nurse
- PACU nurse (with current PALS & ACLS)
- Dentist
- Dental Hygienist
- Speech Pathologist (with cleft experience)
Non-Medical Volunteers
- Mission Director
- Sterilizer
- Photographer
- Record Keeper
- Ward Coordinator
- Translator
- Click to See Protocols for Each Position
Click on a job description below to view the protocol for that position
| Medical Positions | Non-Medical Positions |
|---|---|
| Plastic Surgeon | Mission Director |
| Anesthesia | Record Keeper |
| Pediatrician | Photographer |
| Lead Nurse | Ward Coordinator |
| OR Nurse | Sterilizer |
| PACU Nurse | |
| Dentistry |
Volunteer Applications
Click on the appropriate application below
- Medical Volunteer Application
- Non-Medical Volunteer Application
- International Medical Fellowship Application
Trip Fees and Airfare Costs
Trip Fee: All volunteers must pay a tax-deductible trip participation fee of $525 (once they are assigned to a mission).
Airfare:
- Medical Volunteers: Alliance for Smiles covers airfare costs for approved medical volunteers.
- Non-Medical Volunteers: Unless a mission is funded by a grant that covers airfare costs, non-medical volunteers are required to pay their own airline expenses.
If any of these expenses create a financial hardship, we can work with you to fundraise and/or find sponsors to cover all or part of the costs. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you!
Did you know that thousands of companies and hospitals offer volunteer matching/grant programs where they will donate to Alliance for Smiles when you volunteer with us?
Alliance for Smiles International Fellowship Program
Intensive 1–2 Week Program Investment: $2,000–$2,500 (depending on mission length)
The Alliance for Smiles International Medical Fellowship offers pre-medical and healthcare-focused students a unique opportunity to observe and support life-changing cleft surgery missions in underserved communities around the world.
Working alongside experienced surgeons, nurses, dentists, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals, fellows gain valuable exposure to international healthcare, surgical care, patient recovery, and mission operations.
The program is ideal for:
- Premedical students
- Undergraduate students interested in healthcare
- Medical students
- Individuals exploring careers in medicine or healthcare
Applicants should be at least 21 years old at the time of travel (exceptions may be considered).
What You’ll Experience
- Observe cleft surgeries and patient care
- Learn from experienced medical professionals
- Participate in educational mentorship opportunities
- Gain exposure to global healthcare systems
- Travel to an underserved region of the world
- Receive 80 verified volunteer hours and a certificate of completion
Program Includes
- Accommodations
- Ground transportation
- Three meals per day
- Travel insurance
- Educational programming and mentorship
- Certificate of completion
Airfare is not included.
Mission Impact
As part of the fellowship, a portion of your program fee helps support life-changing cleft surgery for a child receiving care through Alliance for Smiles.
How to Apply
- Complete the application.
- Meet with an Alliance for Smiles team member to discuss the program.
- Receive mission preparation materials and travel information.
Questions?
Contact Alliance for Smiles at internship@allianceforsmiles.org or (415) 647-4481.
Help
Us Continue
Changing
lives
Your support helps provide life-changing cleft care, medical training, and sustainable healthcare partnerships around the world.