In this episode, Dr. Grace Yum interviews Lynda Ricketson, President & CEO of Dental Lifeline Network, to discuss DLN’s mission and the urgent need for volunteer dentists. Lynda shares how the Donated Dental Services program streamlines all coordination so clinicians can focus solely on care, the growing nationwide demand, and how treating even one patient a year can make a profound impact on both patients and dental teams. Episode 336 is available for download now on all of the top podcast platforms or listen now by clicking the player above!
Episode Highlights:
- Overview of Dental Lifeline Network’s mission and who they serve
- Why the need for volunteer dentists is higher than ever
- How the Donated Dental Services (DDS) program works
- What volunteering actually looks like for dental teams
- The emotional and cultural benefits of giving back
Meet this week’s guest:
Lynda Ricketson, President and CEO
Lynda is responsible for the oversight of financial management, development, marketing, programs, volunteer recruitment and day-to-day operations. Before joining DLN 3 years ago, she spent the entirety of her thirty-year career in the nonprofit sector, including serving as a program officer for Rose Community Foundation (RCF) specializing in mental and dental health. Educating the public about the importance of oral health care became a passion and she was among the group of funders and public health dentists that created Cavity Free at Three, a program designed to prevent oral disease in young children and pregnant women. Ricketson earned her undergraduate degree from Metropolitan State University and a master’s in liberal studies from the University of Denver. She also maintains the Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) accreditation.
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