CHICAGO (July 30, 2014)— Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children: The Foundation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), and its Access to Care Grants program, was recently recognized as one of ASAE’s 2014 Power of A Gold Awardees. The Power of A Awards recognize a select number of organizations annually that distinguish themselves with innovative, effective and broad-reaching programs and activities that positively impact America and the world.

ASAE recognized 23 organizations with a 2014 Power of A Gold Award and another 22 with a Power of A Silver Award this year. The Power of A Awards recognize and celebrate the extraordinary contributions associations make to society by enriching lives, creating a competitive workforce, preparing society for the future, driving innovation and making a better world. ASAE received roughly 100 entries in this year’s awards program.

 “Congratulations to this year’s Power of A Award winners for leveraging their resources and coming up with unique, innovative and inspiring ways to benefit not just their own industry or profession, but society at large,” said Paul Pomerantz, CAE, CEO of the American Society of Anesthesiologists and chair of the Power of A Awards Judging Committee. “This year, our committee had an exceptionally strong group of entries to consider, and it’s heartening to see so many organizations excelling in their work. Associations have great stories to share about their industries and professions, and it’s with great pleasure and pride that we recognize their efforts through the Power of A Awards.”

 “We deeply appreciate this honor from such an influential organization as ASAE,” stated HSHC President Beverly A. Largent, DMD.  “Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children is committed to supporting community-based initiatives providing Dental Homes to every child in the country currently lacking one, which is the centerpiece of HSHC’s mission.  To date, more than 118,000 children have been helped by HSHC grantees and through multiple affiliations.  HSHC has released more than $1.8 million in grants and commitments through 51 grants to 48 local agencies and dental clinics in 18 states since 2010 (including 2014 commitments).”