SCOTTSDALE, Arizona--During its recent Western Regional Dental Convention, the Arizona Dental Association named Kris A. Volcheck, DDS, MBA its "Dentist of the Year."
The selection was made by the AzDA Board of Trustees comprising dentists from all areas of the state, based upon "outstanding contributions to the profession of dentistry in Arizona."
Dr. Volcheck is Director of the Dental Clinic at Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS), a Phoenix-based nonprofit organization whose mission is "to empower men, women and children with diverse needs to end their homelessness through emergency shelter and supportive services."
After closing his Globe, Arizona dental practice to pursue his business degree at Arizona State University, Dr. Volcheck accepted the position of Case Manager at CASS, which he held for seven years. When the State of Arizona gave CASS a trailer in 2000, Dr. Volcheck suggested that it be converted into a dental clinic.
I am very happy that everyone gave the idea their blessing," he said.
Since that time, Dr. Volcheck has mobilized dental industry colleagues in one of the most prolific volunteer-based efforts in the state involving some 300 dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, dental program students, dental business professionals plus approximately 100 dental laboratories in Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia that donate thousands of dollars worth of materials and services.
When it became apparent that the trailer was becoming sorely inadequate to serve the dental needs of the CASS client population, Dr. Volcheck once again mobilized volunteers and last November in collaboration with the City of Phoenix, CASS unveiled a brand-new, state-of-the-art, eight-operatory facility capable of treating some 500 patients each month that was built and equipped mostly through dental industry donations of equipment, supplies, consulting services and manpower.
Dr. Volcheck has been invited twice to make presentations at the National Convention on Healthcare for the Homeless in Washington, D.C.
"It's a great honor to be recognized by my Arizona peers," said Dr. Volcheck. "This award belongs to all of the dentists and dental professionals who volunteer for our clinic. Interacting with the homeless population enriches our lives."
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