International updates

Operation Smile Remains Independent

On February 14, 2011, Operation Smile and Smile Train announced their intent to merge in order to “bring together the best volunteer doctors and other medical personnel, with the best in-country facilities, and … reach more children than the two charities would have separately”.

However, the Board of Directors of Operation Smile voted to discontinue the proposed merger on March 7, 2011. On behalf of the Board of Directors, William R. Fox, Chairman of the Board of Operation Smile, said: “Due to controversy surrounding the proposed merger, we have mutually agreed to remain independent organizations. Our focus at Operation Smile is to help more children and we do not want anything to distract from this effort. We remain committed to our model to build local medical capacity and provide quality care for the millions of children around the world who suffer from cleft lips and cleft palates.”

Take a look at a message from the Co-founders and Chairman of the Board here: http://www.operationsmile.org/about_us/leadership/message-from-the-co-founders.html.

Fourth Comprehensive Care Centre in India

Operation Smile has opened its fourth Comprehensive Care Center in Guwahati, India. The centre will treat more than 5,000 children each year for facial deformities. The new Care Centre is part of Operation Smile’s core programme to create self-sustaining healthcare networks. Operation Smile currently operates 11 Comprehensive Care Centres worldwide. Dr. Bill Magee, CEO and Co-founder of Operation Smile, said, “Operation Smile is not only committed to helping the thousands of children in Assam who are waiting for surgery, but we’re dedicated to creating sustainable medical treatment for children worldwide long after our medical missions are over. Our Care Centers provide children and families access to medical treatment who otherwise wouldn’t be able to receive it. More than creating new smiles, we are giving these children hope for a healthy and more productive future.”

The Care Centres provide patient care beyond surgery such as post-operative care, counseling, speech therapy, dentistry, orthodontics, nutrition, and ongoing training and education.

Find out more about Operation Smile’s work in Guwahati at www.operationsmile.org/guwahati.

Walk-for-Smiles by the North Broward Preparatory School Operation Smile Club

The North Broward Preparatory School Operation Smile club organised its inaugural Operation Smile One Mile Walk on March 26, 2011, located at their school. Participants received a T-shirt and enjoyed food, drinks and entertainment. They were also eligible to win prizes including gift cards and a basketball signed by the Miami Heat players. The club has already raised $25,442 from the community, businesses, and matching programs. Congratulations on their success!