Tuesday, October 25th, 2016 – 4:46 P.M.
The two-time recipient was the only Ohio dentist to earn this prestigious recognition.
October 2016, Mt. Vernon, Ohio – Dr. Brian Howe of Howe Family Dentistry recently was named a 2016 recipient of the prestigious Certificate for International Service from the American Dental Association. He was one of only 22 dental professionals in the nation to earn this award, and the only recipient from the state of Ohio. This was Dr. Howe’s second time receiving this recognition.
The ADA Certificate for International Service recognizes ADA members who have volunteered in developing countries to improve the oral and overall health of individuals. Dr. Howe was nominated for his 2015 trip to Haiti, his fourth such trip volunteering to provide dental care to children and families who otherwise would have none. In fact, Dr. Howe made his fifth volunteer mission to Haiti in March of this year.
While in Haiti, Dr. Howe spends several days working in a makeshift clinic that provides both dental and medical services. In 2015, the clinic was set up on the 2nd floor of a church in Calabasse, Haiti. Although in a rustic setting of bare cinder block walls, grateful residents lined up for care. A local Haitian served as translator, and several other locals trained as nurses also helped in the clinic. A dental student from Ohio State, Sam Gersch, also volunteered on the trip.
“I am honored to receive this recognition,” Dr. Howe said, “but even more, I’m grateful to have the opportunity, year after year, to be able to provide this service. There is so much we take for granted here in our country. It is particularly rewarding to help the people of Haiti – especially the children – because they have so little.”