Our Founders

Alliance for Smiles was formally founded by five individuals: John Uth, John Goings, James Patrick, James Deitz and Anita Stangl. However, Alliance for Smiles wanted to recognize individuals who made a leap of faith in the concept of the work of Alliance for Smiles and decided to donate a minimum of $20,000 during the first four years of operation. They are also founders of Alliance for Smiles and will be recognized in perpetuity as such. The following individuals receive the honor of this unique position:

Rotary Clubs who supported the work of Alliance for Smiles during its first four formative years with donations of $25,000 or more received the honor of being Founding Rotary Clubs. Alliance for Smiles recognizes three Rotary Clubs with this title and they will be recognized in perpetuity for their faith in the work and dreams of Alliance for Smiles.

The Rotary Club of San Francisco

The Rotary Club of Chicago

The Rotary Club of Wanchai, Hong Kong

Alliance for Smiles wishes to thank the above individuals and Rotary Clubs for their support which has helped Alliance for Smiles to not only facilitate medical missions during its first four years but to prosper and grow.

Legacy Club

In 2009 Alliance for Smiles launched its Legacy Campaign to encourage individuals to make a minimum $5000 one-time donation; or to make multiple donations through-out the year adding up to $5000. Participation in this campaign is recognized by membership in a special Legacy Club that will be publicized on the website, at the Gala and in literature. Everyone who donated a minimum $5000 by December 31, 2009 became a Charter Member of this very special Club.

Individuals are inspired to volunteer and donate because of their belief in the work of an organization. Especially when considering humanitarian programs, the emotions felt because of participation in a program that changes lives can have a sincere and long lasting impact.

For many, what an individual accomplishes during his or her lifetime is totally satisfying and fulfilling. Involvement in family, friends and work create a sense of well being. However, for those who want to make a mark in another way and share more of their talents and wealth with humanitarian concerns, involvement in a cause can be extremely rewarding. When they pass, they will have left a humanitarian legacy.

Those people involved in the work of Alliance for Smiles, whether as volunteers or donors, are leaving a legacy that goes beyond the lives of the children receiving surgery. It extends to the patients’ families and to their villages. Alliance for Smiles heals tens of thousands of lives when considering the extended community affected.

To carry on the work of Alliance for Smiles, funding is crucial. Therefore, those individuals who are willing and able to make significant donations are core to program sustainability. These individuals have the opportunity to allow the work of Alliance for Smiles to progress, building on an impressive past.

Therefore in 2009 Alliance for Smiles launched its Legacy Campaign to encourage individuals to make a minimum $5000 one time or multiple time donation to the work of AfS. Participation in this campaign will be recognized by membership in a special Legacy Club that will be publicized on the website, at the Gala and in literature. Everyone who donated a minimum $5000 by December 31, 2009 became a Charter Member of this very special Club.

Volunteer Awards

Decade of Leadership Awards

In order to celebrate dedication to AfS on the occasion of our 10th Anniversary, the Decade of Leadership Award was created to honor four remarkable individuals who have given of their skills and talents from the beginning days of Alliance for Smiles.

• Barbara Fisher
• John Goings
• Dr. Karin Vargervik
• Dr. Colin Wong

Lifetime Achievement Award

• Dr. Colin Wong
• Dr. Karin Vargervik
• John Goings

Children’s Champion Award

• Burt and Joan Berry