In 1995, Dr. Donna Rumberger of New York City co-founded AAWD's charitable foundation, Smiles for Success. Since that time, she has been instrumental in providing care to nearly 100 women in need in more than 23 states across the United States. A past president of AAWD, Dr. Rumberger is a strong believer in giving back to the community. She gives of herself tirelessly and with little fanfare. She often says that her volunteer service is one of the most important facets of her life.
We'd like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Rumberger for her hard work, dedication, and her belief that giving back is one of the most important things you can do in this life.
We share three testimonials from Smiles for Success patients who would agree ..
After completing my training at STRIVE, a job-readiness program in the autumn of 1995, I was chosen to participate in Suited for Success, a new support group for women which further assisted me in my job search, moving from welfare to work. One of the things that kept me from interviewing was my poor self-esteem, which was really low because I had very badly chipped front teeth. Since my smile was not attractive, I was not able to meet interviewers face-to-face. But this didn't remain a problem, At one of our monthly support groups sitting next to me was this exquisite lady, Dr. Donna Rumberger. She not only provided inspiration for our group; she corrected my dental problems and became my mentor. Today, I am a full-time employee while attending Marymount College and just recently graduated from the Marymount College Women in Urban Leadership Program, which I attended on a full scholarship. I am also proud to say that I sit on the Suited for Success Board and am a mentor in their Mentoring Program. I owe much of my success and determination to Dr. Rumberger and Smiles for Success, a life-changing program.
— Carmen Encarnacion
I often reflect on what my life was like prior to meeting Dr. Donna Rumberger and finding out about Smiles for Success. I very seldom smiled because I lost my dentures. Not having teeth for two years prevented me from finding work. I would apply for jobs, but when people saw that I did not have teeth, they were not willing to give me a job. Dr. Rumberger encouraged me to come to her office. She was patient and kind. A few days after Christmas, I received my new set of dentures. I am impressed with the service that Dr. Rumberger provided. She explained all aspects of the procedure and she also expedited the process. Thanks to Dr. Rumberger and Smiles for Success, I am happy with myself, smiling, and employed.
— Yolanda Abrams
It was a privilege to have been a participant in Smiles for Success. I would have been thankful for a simple cleaning and light orthodontic work, but Dr. Rumberger went the extra miles and did some light cosmetic work — lining up the edges of my front teeth, which were a little uneven. Dr. Rumberger always took a personal interest in me. Her smiles, genuine warmth, and concern made me feel very comfortable. In a nutshell, as a "Smiles for Success" participant, I received the best care one could ever hope to have from a dentist. I hope many more women can experience the program and benefit from it. Thank you, Dr. Rumberger
— Saretta Andrea Burkett
