Bolivia…landlocked…the poorest country in South America...possibly the entire world. Yet rich in natural resources and culture…65% of the population is indigenous.Smile Forever Foundation believes it is important to invest in programs that are culturally sensitive, educate and encourage the population to develop and value their own country.We can no longer accept patchwork humanitarianism as the solution to global problems.

Smiles Forever believes that the only way to really break the cycle of poverty in developing nations such as Bolivia is to educate young women and girls. The culture may relegate females to second class status, yet there is no denying that the woman is the primary socializing force of the family.

An educated woman practices family planning. 

An educated woman knows that equal opportunity should be afforded to both male and female children.

An educated woman understands and values the importance of prevention when it comes to both medical and dental care.

She is less likely to accept domestic violence as a situation she must tolerate.

She has self esteem, which allows her to make appropriate decisions within her household, community and country.

Humanitarian programs already exist in Bolivia that provides emergency dental care for shelter residents.

Smiles Forever Foundation is unique in that it offers homeless young indigenous women an opportunity to build a career, particularly in a field where the need is great.

Smiles Forever gives young indigent women an opportunity to learn a skill which will allow them to provide for their families and enhance their lives. Our students are given a stipend each month. They are able to save a part of the money while expected to purchase personal items such as shampoo and clothing. Smiles Forever provides funding for their education. In addition to learning the skill of dental hygiene, the students are able complete their general education. The school promotes the Quecha values of truth and hard work as well as honoring Quechua traditions. The director of the program has also made special allowances to tutor our students to the general educational level these students should be. This is not available in the public school system.

Although Dental Hygiene training is its core focus, Smiles Forever goes far beyond that goal. Most of our students are heavily “institutionalized,” meaning they have not had the chance to develop life skills.

Smiles Forever students are encouraged to buy and prepare their own food. Are given extended training on the computer, English as a second language, workshops on leadership and politics are now in the works. The students are educated and socialized in a loving, supervised home environment. If a graduate of the program decides to pursue another career or unrelated job opportunity, Smiles Forever still considers her story a big success.