Walter Kostrzewski Volunteers in AACD’s Give Back A Smile Program for Domestic Violence Survivors

Local American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD) dentist, Walter Kostrzewski volunteers for the AACD’s Give Back A Smile (GBAS) program to heal the effects of domestic violence by providing free consultation and dental treatment to restore the smiles of survivors of domestic violence.

“Through the Give Back A Smile program, AACD members like me assist survivors by treating their dental injuries that were sustained from domestic violence, so that they may reclaim their smiles, their self-esteem and, ultimately, their lives,” commented Walter Kostrzewski, DMD of Milford, CT.

How the program works
• Domestic violence survivors who have suffered dental injuries from abuse from a former intimate partner or spouse can contact GBAS toll-free at: 800.773.GBAS (4227)
• Survivors must make an appointment with a counselor, domestic violence advocate, social worker or therapist to complete the advocate section of the GBAS application.
• GBAS conducts the initial review of the application however the dentist has the final say as to the eligibility of the applicant.
• If eligible, the AACD connects the survivor with a local GBAS volunteer who provides treatment at no charge to the recipient.

Helping the Community by Helping Individuals
“Because more than five million people are affected by domestic violence every year in the United States and Canada, there is clearly a need for a program like Give Back A Smile to help survivors rejuvenate their lives through the caring hands of a local dentist,” Walter Kostrzewski, DMD indicated.

In July 2001, the AACD was one of only eight organizations in the world to receive the Award of Excellence and the prestigious Associations Advance America Summit Award for its GBAS program. The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), of Washington, D.C, sponsors this yearly national competition to recognize the charitable organizations that make the most effort to advance American society.

For complete details about the Give Back A Smile program, visit www.givebackasmile.com or call toll-free: 800.543.9220. Those interested in finding help with the Give Back A Smile program can also visit the Web site, call the National Hotline: 800.773.GBAS, or send an e-mail to givebackasmile@aacd.com. Visit Dr. Kostrzewski online at http://www.ctsmiles.com.

The Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics (ACE) is a community of dedicated dental professionals who provide excellent patient care. ACE strives to educate, mentor and share information to be the recognized leader in comprehensive esthetic dental education.

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