“We compassionately provide quality dental care and education for the Maasai community.”
By:
Listening and responding to needs identified by the community.
Building relationship with local individuals.
Modeling the expression of empathy and compassion.
Hiring dedicated Maasai individuals to manage and operate the Maasai dental clinic while sustaining our mission.
Providing continuing education to our team.
Attracting skilled licensed dental volunteers from around our world.
Using state of the art equipment.
Empowering Maasai mommas as they learn to understand how best to care for their infants and toddlers’ oral health.
Respecting and celebrating cultural diversity.
Providing interaction and conversation through our cultural teach and learn classes.
Collaborating with organizations as we broaden our scope of positive impact.
Volunteer
The Maasai Dental Clinic was established by Dr. Ray and Gail Damazo adjacent to the world-famous Maasai Mara National Game Park in Kenya, East Africa. “This clinic is a jewel which must be preserved,” says Dr. James Libby, President of World Health Dental Organization (WHDO). The Maasai Dental Clinic is sponsored and funded by WHDO, a US non-profit humanitarian organization.
Located in a vastly underserved area, the clinic is for the benefit of the 50,000 Maasai people.
The clinic has provided free dentistry on the Mara since 2008. It has been served by licensed dentists and hygienists from all over the world, driven by passion to “give back.” Volunteer Dr. Brian Griffith says, “It was absolutely my pleasure to be at the clinic for 5 weeks. I’ve traveled a lot and it was the best experience ever. It almost feels like home!” He’s returned 3 times.
Two acres of park like, secured grounds, is the setting for this well constructed clinic. People come from miles away by walking, motorbike and occasionally “matatu” taxi.
“Well equipped” describes the modern three operatory clinics with state of the art delivery systems, newly donated high and low speed hand pieces, sterilization, two portable Nomad digital x- rays, DCI high speed evacuation and air compressor.
The clinic was established for relief of pain and suffering for the Maasai. This is our primary mission. As a result, we have a full array of surgical instruments. For those who prefer to be more restorative contributors, there is a full armamentarium for direct bonding, composite fillings and more advanced procedures as long as stabilization and completion is achieved on your watch.
Our clinical team is here to support, direct and interpret for you. They are committed to giving you clear feedback as to the patient's expectations. Always ask what it is the patient wants.
A new generation of Maasai who appreciate a more modern approach to preserving their health is emerging. We have community programs meeting this need.
Hours of operation for the clinic are Monday - Friday, 8:30am-4:00pm with a one-hour lunch. Every day is a unique experience and your opportunity for cultural immersion. This will likely change your life.
Travel to Nairobi
WAY TO GO! You’re on your way to service adventure of a lifetime! Follow the 10 action STEPS below to arrange your international trip to Nairobi, Kenya.
- View our volunteer calendar and select the 2 or 4 weeks that you would like to volunteer. Due to logistics, you will begin and end your volunteer service on either the 1st or 15th of each month.
- Contact Pam Libby, Director by email Pam Libby for your initial interview.
- Book your international flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Plan to arrive no later than the night before the 1st or15th of a month.
- Email our Admin. Assistant Chris Hickenlooper to assist you in getting your Kenya dental license. Reach her at Chris Hickenlooper. Forms are found under FORMS on this website.
- Reserve your hotel in Nairobi. The Southern Sun Mayfare is our hotel of choice. They support the Maasai Dental Clinic by offering our volunteers preferred rates, allowing us to assemble and stage all supply shipments and making your first night in Kenya relaxing and enjoyable. Don’t miss the bountiful breakfast buffet in the morning. Check it out on the web www.southernsun.co.ke. Contact them at Reservations or call +254203740920. Be sure to tell them you are a Maasai Dental Clinic Volunteer.
- Contact Harrison Kihugu, our private contracted driver service in Nairobi to arrange your transportation. Please provide him your airline, flight # and time of arrival in Nairobi. All of your transportation is provided by WHDO for up to 5 people.
CONTACT INFORMATION for HARRISON KIHUGU:
Email: Harrison Kihugu ph from US 011 254 722 526 254 ph in Kenya 0722526254 - Go to Kenya Visa Online to get your Kenya visa online. You must have a valid passport.
- Insure you are current with immunizations. Some volunteers choose to take anti-malaria medication. Kenya has no required immunizations with the exception of volunteers arriving from a country that does require Yellow Fever certificates. Kenya officials will require you to produce this certificate upon arrival.
- Clear customs upon arriving at Kenyatta International Airport.
- Proceed with your bags to the exit. Look for our driver holding the “white molar sign with MDC”. Relax and enjoy your ride to the hotel!
Travel - Nairobi to Maasai Dental Clinic
You’re probably feeling jet lagged this morning! No problem, it’s easy to sleep on the road or in the air!
Your choice. Take a look at Option #1 - THE ROAD TRIP.
- Check out & be ready with bags to leave your hotel by 9am. Harrison will be waiting. Make meeting place arrangements the night before.
- Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic Rift Valley as you travel 3 hours to Narok, the bustling Maasai capital city.
- In Narok, you will be met by our clinic manager William Barusei in our 7 passenger safari vehicle.
- William is available to assist you shop for groceries in Tuskys supermarket. Be sure to purchase plenty of bottled water for your 2 or 4 weeks at the clinic.
- Pick up food items that supplement your meal planning should you choose to forgo some meals at Siana Springs Tented Camp. There is a full kitchen for your use.
- There is an ATM and a great restaurant called Pizza O next to Tuskys. They serve authentic Italian espresso and pizza. A rare find in rural Kenya. You will be in Narok for the time it takes you to do your shopping and William to do his errands for the clinic.
- It is a 2.5 hour journey to reach the Maasai Dental Clinic. The sights are fascinating as you pass manyatas, herds of goats, wild game and friendly pedestrians on a very bumpy dirt road!
- Arrival is around 4pm. As you enter the gates of the grounds, you will meet our askari (guard) who makes sure you are secure and comfortable.
- Take a tour of our accommodations with William as he answers any questions you have. See ACCOMMODATIONS for details. Enjoy dinner at Siana Springs Tented Camp at 7:30pm.
Option #2 - Going by Air
- The option to fly to Siana Springs Airstrip is available and very convenient. The grass airstrip is literally 3 minutes away from the clinic.
- Flight costs are not covered by WHDO and run approximately $200.00 one way. We recommend Safarilink Aviation out of the regional Wilson Airport in Nairobi if you choose to fly.
- It is your responsibility to contact William Barusei (email wbarusei@hotmail.com or phone 011 254 714 084 202) to alert him that you are flying in or out. There must be a minimum of 2 passengers for Safarilink to land at Siana Springs Airstrip, otherwise you will be flown to an airstrip an hour or two away.
Your comfort & security are important to us! We are pleased to offer you several accommodation options along with WIFI.
Our LOFT APARTMENT sleeps 4. The master bedroom has a king size bed with a full bathroom. There is a pull out queen sofa bed. The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking. All the comforts of home are right here including towels and sheets!
The SCREENED PORCH, part of the apartment, offers you an oasis of peace and quiet as you experience Africa waking up at dawn. Viewing baboons, monkeys, goats and other wildlife from this vantage point is interesting and humorous. Evenings on the porch are magical.
GUEST ROOM on ground level is well appropriated with twin beds and a full bathroom. Using this option along with the loft apartment works well for a family.
Our LUXURY SAFARI TENT is a must for the romantic and adventurous volunteer. If you’ve wanted an “Out of Africa” experience, stay here. Nocturnal sounds abound. There are two twin beds, a full bathroom, desk and chairs. The monkeys will do their best to keep you company. Keep your tent flap closed!
DINING ACCOMMODATION extends through the gate to Siana Springs Tented Camp. Supporting our mission to the community, this camp recognizes the many benefits the Maasai Dental Clinic volunteers provide to individuals throughout the entire region.
They show their appreciation by offering 6 complimentary meals per day to every volunteer team.You are invited to enjoy their nightly campfire and music as well.
They are great neighbors! Take a look. www.siana-springs.co.ke.
We recommend that you think through your eating needs prior to arriving at the clinic. You may wish to cook most of your meals in the apartment or none of them. Mixing it up a bit makes life more interesting. William will assist you in reserving meals at the Tented Camp.
Please note that you are responsible to purchase bottled water for drinking. Bottled water is available to buy in Narok and locally in Nkoilale.
COMPUTER - We have limited bandwidth internet at the Maasai Dental Clinic. Please plan to turn your smart phone to airplane mode or OFF when not using device. Do NOT stream videos i.e. Netflix. We appreciate your consideration of this unbelievable service in bush Africa! The password is in the apartment manual.
BOOKS, GAMES or PROJECTS - You will have some “down time”. Please remember, Africa beats to a very different time drum. Relax and enjoy your time, in the clinic and out.
INSECT REPELLENT - You will want to use this in the evening. This is NOT a high malaria area. You can wear long sleeves and long pants at night if you feel more comfortable with this. There are also sleeping nets over most of the beds.
SHOTS - There are no requirements. You need to do as you wish regarding shots.
HEADLIGHT - It’s very dark at night. You will want a headlight to see your way to `the Tented Camp for dinner.
RAIN JACKET, RUBBER BOOTS, UMBRELLA - There is a rainy season and it can really rain here. If you don’t want wet feet buy some cheap boots (women mostly like this suggestion). Be sure to have a Gortex jacket of some sort to put over a sweater or fleece. It gets cool in the evenings. Cheap rubber boots and umbrellas are sold at Tuskeys Store in Narok.
SWIM SUIT - There is a small pool at the Siana Springs Tented Camp. It is very private. If you think you might like to swim, throw it in. It’s NOT heated.
SUNSCREEN & SUN HAT - We are on the Equator. The sun is intense. PERIOD. You will want these especially on safari.
BEVERAGES - Best to pick up any beverages you would like during your stay i.e. teas, coffee, hot chocolate, sodas, bottled water in Narok. If you want Crystal Lite or something like this, bring it from home.
SEASONINGS, SPICES ETC… - There are real basic seasonings in the kitchen drawer. If you wish to cook in the apartment kitchen and you want specific exotic flavors, bring the spice. If you want Peanut Butter ie Skippy or Jiff peanut butter, bring it from home. There are fantastic “ground nuts” peanuts available in the local stores.
DRINKING WATER - Be sure to pick up large bottles of water in Narok unless you fly in. You can boil water also. We have water pumps on the large bottles which work great.
Bring a water bottle and go easy on plastic water bottles. The plastic influence on Africa is startling. Very sad to see villages littered with plastic bottles and bags.
IMPORTANT TIPS:
CLOTHING & SHOES - Best to pack light regarding clothes! We have a wonderful “laundry lady Lucy” who comes on Mondays and Thursdays to wash your clothes if you’d like. Bring layers, as day time is hot, evenings cool and nights can be cold!! Comfort is the most important thing. Jeans take way too long to dry! Quick drying items are best. I like to have a good pair of walking or running shoes, sturdy sandals i.e. TEVA, flip flops, rubber boots and multi-use flats (for women). Bring a warm jacket and sweater.
DENTAL SUPPLIES - We work with several dental suppliers in Nairobi. It is not necessary for you to bring supplies UNLESS you want to bring something you “CAN NOT” do dentistry without! Please bring it and then take it home with you. There are red scrub tops that have Maasai Dental Clinic embroidered on them for your use while here. Lucy will wash these. Scrub pants not necessary unless you can’t live without them! Occasionally we ask volunteers to bring toothbrushes for the school kids. This is a mixed bag as they do not use western style toothbrushes. They use a stick frayed at the ends which seem to be effective for them. The trees they use are everywhere.
ORGANIZING SUPPLIES - Upon doing performance reviews with our assistants, I discovered their frustration at dentists coming and “reorganizing everything” in the supply room and ops”. Please respect their process of organization even though it might be very different from yours in your office.
RESPECT IN CLINIC - Our team here wants to please you and do a great job. As you can imagine, working with a different dentist every two weeks is a huge deal. Please be patient, kind, no shouting or belittling ever.
ELECTRICAL POWER - We are off the grid. We depend on the Tented Camp’s generator for power. Please keep your plug-ins to a minimum, i.e. hair dryers. We do have propane gas available when the generator is off. Propane is expensive, use wisely.
BEDDING, LINENS, TOWELS - No need to pack any unless you prefer to sleep in your own personal sheets. There is a king bed in the apartment. There are 8 twin beds between the guestroom, teaching center and safari tent. We have what you need!
KITCHEN SUPPLIES - Our apartment is well stocked with dinnerware, glasses, pots and pans. No need to bring anything else. You are welcome to use the kitchen any time you wish. Dining at the Siana Springs Tented Camp is available.
DINING OUT - We are fortunate to have a very good relationship with Siana Springs Tented Camp with the providing 6 complimentary meals per day for our volunteers.
SAFARI - This is a real big benefit to volunteering at the Maasai Dental Clinic! You will have the option to go all day Saturday.
LOCAL MARKET - Experience something you’ll never see at home! The local market on Monday afternoon is a must. You can find fresh produce and basic staples there.
“SWEETS” - Please do not give Maasai children candy! We are working hard to educate them to take great care of their teeth and gums. You really don’t need to bring gifts for the kids. Our gift to the whole community is treating them for no charge at the clinic.
Thanks so much for your interest in SERVICE ADVENTURE. BELIEVE IT OR NOT YOU ARE VERY UNIQUE. With people like you, this world is a better place.
Feel free to email me anytime with your questions and concerns.Pam Libby or US phone 1 907-250-2517
WORLD HEALTH DENTAL ORGANIZATION (WHDO)
MAASAI DENTAL CLINIC PROJECT
Application Forms & Procedures
To Apply to volunteer at the Maasai Dental Clinic download Maasai Dental Clinic Volunteer Application. Submit the information requested via email to Pam Libby.
To Apply for Kenya temporary dental license, download 1) LICENSE for FOREIGN DOCTORS APPLICATION and 2) MODIFIED CV. Compile and complete all.
Mail or email the scanned applications & documents to Chris Hickenlooper, WHDO Admin Assistant:
Chris Hickenlooper LPD Bookkeeping 405 W. 36th Ave. Suite 210 Anchorage, Alaska 99503 email: Chris Hickenlooper
Mail payment of $300.00, payable to World Health Dental Organization, to Chris at the address below in order to proceed with the licensing process in Nairobi.
Chris Hickenlooper LPD Bookkeeping 405 W. 36th Ave. Suite 210 Anchorage, Alaska 99503
World Health Dental Organization is happy to assist you with the licensing process generally taking between 3 - 8 weeks. You will be notified when your temporary Kenya license has been received.
To apply please download and complete all forms and applications
Download License for Foreign Doctors Application
Click to Download Maasai Dental Clinic Volunteer Application
ALL DOCUMENTS MUST BE IN ENGLISH OR TRANSLATED TO ENGLISH
Get ready to experience your private, all day safari on the Maasai Mara. This is not a zoo; this is not a fenced in park. Welcome to the wild!
William is your guide on this weekend game drive in our Land Cruiser. With camera in hand, view the unexpected through the roof. Herds of elephants, a pride of lions, a single cheetah stalking a wildebeest, a rhino hiding in the thicket. Who knows, no two drives are ever the same.
We provide this safari in appreciation for your generous service. You can choose your time of departure and return with William. Picnic under an acacia tree or have lunch on your own at one of the lodges. It’s up to you.
Upon arriving at the Sekenani Gate, the entrance to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, you will purchase a day pass. The rate for the non-resident humanitarian pass is $40.00US per person. They do accept credit cards.
ADDITIONAL ADVENTURES
Monday afternoons the open market in Nkoilale is in full swing! It’s a vibrant shopping experience.
Visit a manyata one afternoon to learn more about the Maasai lifestyle is available.
Attend a local church worship service on a Sunday for the opportunity to worship Maasai style.
Balloon flights may be booked on the weekends with balloon companies in the area.
2018 List of Doctors to Volunteer at MDC
| Availability | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| NOT Available | 01/01/2018 | 01/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 01/15/2018 | 02/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 02/01/2018 | 02/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 02/15/2018 | 03/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 03/01/2018 | 03/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 03/15/2018 | 04/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 04/01/2018 | 04/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 04/15/2018 | 05/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 05/01/2018 | 05/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 05/15/2018 | 06/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 06/01/2018 | 06/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 06/15/2018 | 07/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 07/01/2018 | 07/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 07/15/2018 | 08/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 08/01/2018 | 08/15/2018 |
| Available | 08/15/2018 | 09/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 09/01/2018 | 09/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 09/15/2018 | 10/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 10/01/2018 | 10/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 10/15/2018 | 11/01/2018 |
| NOT Available | 11/01/2018 | 11/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 11/15/2018 | 12/01/2018 |
| Available | 12/01/2018 | 12/15/2018 |
| NOT Available | 12/15/2018 | 01/01/2019 |
2019 List of Doctors to Volunteer at MDC
| Availability | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| NOT Available | 01/01/2019 | 01/15/2019 |
| NOT Available | 01/15/2019 | 02/01/2019 |
| NOT Available | 02/01/2019 | 02/15/2019 |
| NOT Available | 02/15/2019 | 03/01/2019 |
| Available | 03/01/2019 | 03/15/2019 |
| Available | 03/15/2019 | 04/01/2019 |
| Available | 04/01/2019 | 04/15/2019 |
| Available | 04/15/2019 | 05/01/2019 |
| Available | 05/01/2019 | 05/15/2019 |
| Available | 05/15/2019 | 06/01/2019 |
| Available | 06/01/2019 | 06/15/2019 |
| Available | 06/15/2019 | 07/01/2019 |
| NOT Available | 07/01/2019 | 07/15/2019 |
| Available | 07/15/2019 | 08/01/2019 |
| Available | 08/01/2019 | 08/15/2019 |
| Available | 08/15/2019 | 09/01/2019 |
| Available | 09/01/2019 | 09/15/2019 |
| Available | 09/15/2019 | 10/01/2019 |
| Available | 10/01/2019 | 10/15/2019 |
| Available | 10/15/2019 | 11/01/2019 |
| Available | 11/01/2019 | 11/15/2019 |
| Available | 11/15/2019 | 12/01/2019 |
| Available | 12/01/2019 | 12/15/2019 |
| Available | 12/15/2019 | 01/01/2019 |
Programs
Since it’s 2009 inception, our Global Student/Mentor Program has provided experiential learning for qualified dental students. To be accepted, 4th year students must demonstrate competent knowledge of clinical procedures, professionalism and hand skills. Students are supervised closely by a licensed qualified dentist mentor. Students are responsible to select their mentor. During the 2 or 4-week rotation, students apply their school knowledge to real live practice.
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry has championed this program through their service learning department. Fourteen LLUSD students have volunteered at the Maasai Dental Clinic in the past nine years. “My mentor, Dr. Libby, helped me get insight into how it feels to be independent, making my own decisions. This experience gave me the confidence and excitement to start my first job as a dentist. My advice to all dental students is to go go go” says Juliana Rodriquez DDS now practicing in Calgary, Canada.
World Health Dental Organization leads the way in modeling service to our world community. We invite dental students to contact us to apply.
New Cavities Prevention Program
“I Am Responsible”
Our New Cavities Prevention Program works within local culture in the Maasai Mara region to enhance children’s self-esteem as they learn to take a positive, preventive role in their own health. Our goal is to educate and empower young children with the knowledge, skills and confidence to take responsibility of their own oral health.
There are 9 primary schools within a 15-mile radius of the Maasai Dental Clinic. We began this program at Mpopong’I Primary and Boarding School, closest to the clinic. There are 700+ students. After observing dental needs in the region, we implemented our program with entry level students, as it is apparent that prevention must start early.
World Health Dental Organization Programs Director, Mandy McGill, RDH and dental public health specialist, developed and implemented this school program.
The children ages 5-7, along with their teacher are taught a dental health education lesson which engages the students with visual aids and classroom participation. Lesson objectives include helping the students understand the importance of their teeth, the disease process, disease prevention, nutrition, and good oral health practices.
Students are then taught effective brushing skills by demonstration and hands on practice.
Disclosing tablets (pink tablets) are used to create student awareness of the presence of plaque on the teeth and to aid in demonstrating effective removal by tooth brushing. The children loved looking at their pink teeth in the mirror!
The program also includes a daily tooth brushing program that was successfully implemented in partnership with the school and classroom teacher, who is dedicated to supervising and participating in this program.
The class was given a large mirror and tooth brush holder made from recycled water bottles that was mounted to the classroom wall for daily access, and the students brush daily after lunch.
We support the maintenance of this program with ongoing monitoring, assessment, evaluation and partnership with the local school. Our trained dental educator visits the school monthly and replacement of oral hygiene supplies is provided. The students are encouraged to reflect on their experience, what they have learned, and the impact to their oral and overall health.
Students that participate in this program become responsible for their own oral health and are positive oral health role models in their community. We are already receiving positive feedback from the community indicating a big improvement since the program was introduced!
Momma Baby Oral Clinic
There is a great need for education to empower mothers to take responsibility for their own oral health and the oral health of their children. This exciting program provides preventative oral health education and early intervention strategies and skills to mothers of infants and young children, in the Maasai Mara region.
Mommas are encouraged to bring their young child to the Maasai Dental Clinic where our trained educator provides assessment, prevention education, and dietary counselling.
Nutrition education is critical due to the accessibility of sweetened milk tea in a sippy cup or bottle throughout the day.
Oral assessment using the knee-knee position with the mother is provided with demonstration of tooth cleaning skills, positioning techniques and detection of plaque and disease. This knee-knee position is valuable in creating awareness of the child’s oral health.
We also offer two formal Momma Baby Clinics each year at the area health clinic, which are promoted in the community.
The successful launch of this program saw an astounding number of mommas and babies who were all extremely grateful for the information and services provided.
World Health Dental Organization is appreciative to Programs Director Mandy McGill, RDH for developing and implemented this pioneering program in Kenya.
News
Completed in February, 2018, The Maasai Teaching Center (MTC) is the perfect addition to our clinic campus. It houses our community service programs as well as facilitating both teaching and learning opportunity for our volunteers. We like to think of it as a place to inspire personal, professional and community growth.
Program Director Mandy McGill RDH administers our New Cavities Prevention Program and Momma Baby Oral Care Program through the MTC.
Our Dental Health & Well-Being Project is taught around the 4 tables in the study area. These ongoing Health and Wellness English Language classes prove to be lively and fun for both teacher and students. Additionally, level 1 English conversation classes are available two days a week. .
Designed by Ray Damazo, the MTC is a Global Teaching Site for our STUDENT / MENTOR program. Fourth year dental students, along with a mentor, are invited to practice their skill and knowledge under supervision. .
One of the highlights of the MTC is the fully equipped commercial kitchen. This beautiful kitchen offers us the capacity to provide meals to our volunteers and staff as well. .
“I love the cross cultural exchange I’ve experienced in the teaching center,” says Pam Libby Director. “It’s satisfying to see Maasai individuals and volunteers from all over the world come together and learn from each other.”
We encourage volunteers to lead discussions regarding special interests to the community here at the MTC. We are honored to have Maasai elders come and share their views on Maasai history and current trends impacting the lifestyle of this unique tribe of Kenya. .
The Maasai Teaching Center is the result of generosity and hard work. We are profoundly appreciative to the Wyss Foundation for their donation of funds. We are grateful for the vision of both Ray Damazo and Jim Libby who MADE IT HAPPEN!.
Board of Directors
Jim Libby DDS, President
Raised in Bristol Bay, Alaska, Jim Libby is a veteran of “the bush” lifestyle and thrives on adventure anywhere. That’s why the Maasai Mara is so appealing. As newly appointed president of WHDO, Jim plans to continue the growth and development of the Maasai Dental Clinic in Kenya.
Jim graduated from Loma Linda School of Dentistry in 1977. During the past 35+ years, he owned and operated The Libby Group, a practice in Anchorage, Alaska. Receiving many national awards for dentistry during his years of practice, he also led dental service projects with his family and dental team. Nepal, Fiji, Peru, Africa, Dominican Republic are several locations where they served.
Commercial fishing in Bristol Bay is a heritage he won’t give up! He loves the private flying, hard work and family time.
Having fun in the outdoors is his passion. Mountain biking, motorcycle racing, and backcountry skiing top the list.
Pam Libby MS, Executive Director
Pam Libby loves service adventure! The opportunity to serve on the WHDO board is just what she was looking for. She’s had many years of donating her time and skills both internationally and nationally.
Worthington, Ohio is where Pam grew up. Her parents taught her to be a contribution in her world. After teaching English as a second language in Jakarta, Indonesia for one year, she graduated from Loma Linda University in 1976 as a communications major.
Marrying Jim Libby in 1978, they soon made Anchorage, AK their hometown. It was a great place to raise their two sons, Landon and Justin.
Pam thrives on variety. She’s a licensed family therapist, yoga instructor, commercial fisher, dental administrator, athlete and philanthropist. Alaska and Baja serve as big landscapes for her outdoor physical activities. Running, biking, swimming, cross-country skiing fit into her lifestyle just right!
Brian Evans DDS, Treasurer
Evans joined the World Health Dental Organization board in 2013 after spending 5 weeks at the Maasai Dental Clinic with his family. Evans is in private practice as a general dentist in Reno, NV.
He graduated from Pacific Union College in 1999 with a degree in accounting and worked in public accounting as a C.P.A. for 6 years before going to Loma Linda University to become a dentist
Along with several affiliations with local and national dental associations he is also a member of the Monterey Bay Academy alumni endowment board.
While not at work he enjoys downhill skiing, 4-wheeling, mountain biking and spending as much time as he can with his wife and two children
After being at the Maasai Dental Clinic and seeing the potential the clinic has to serve the people, he is very excited about the future of this organization.
Kirsten Roggenkamp, Secretary
Kirsten Roggenkamp spent her early years in Ohio, Alaska, California, Illinois, Michigan, and France. She and her husband, Clyde, graduated in the same class from Andrews University in Michigan.
Teaching is her passion, especially English and French.
Although she and Clyde have only been married four years, they have six children and twelve grandchildren.
Maasai Dental Clinic holds a special place in their hearts as they honeymooned there.
Patricia Benca DDS
Patricia Benca, a native of Illinois, attended University of Notre Dame and Northwestern University Dental School; then completed her Oral Pathology Fellowship and General Practice Residency at the Zoller Dental Clinic at University of Chicago. Her husband's career took the family to Seattle, Washington and there, Benca continued with her love of teaching and hospital dentistry at Harborview Medical Center.
Benca and her hygienist, Nancy Davis, travelled to Nairobi, through Narok and then arrived at the Maasai Dental Clinic, where they spent two weeks treating the Maasai people, the safari lodge workers and any local visitors that needed assistance.
Clyde Roggenkamp, Student Liaison
Roggenkamp was born and raised in Washington, DC where his father was a practicing surgical podiatrist and mother a nurse. He studied at Andrews University (B.A., Michigan) and went to California to receive an ‘inbred’ education with M.A. (Biology), D.D.S., and M.P.H. (Nutrition), all from Loma Linda University.
He is immediate past president of the American Board of Operative Dentistry, current vice-president of the American Academy of Gold Foil Operators, and serves on the boards of the World Health Dental Organization and National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists. He served at the Maasai Dental Clinic twice in the past 4 years--the first time inadvertently being the occasion of the honeymoon with wife Kirsten.
Landon Libby DDS
Libby was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska and now resides in San Diego, CA. Having grown up in a unique environment of responsibility and the extremes, Libby loves the art of life and what it can offer. He received his DDS degree and education at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry.
Libby sits on the board for WHDO. with lots of excitement for Missions and dentistry. Libby’s background is full of mission minded dental trips to places like Kenya, Fiji, Nicaragua, Peru, and Mexico. He spent 1 month as a senior dental student at the Maasai Dental Clinic and it was the best experience of his education.
Doyle Nick DDS, Student Liaison
Associate Professor and Director of the Office of International Affairs, Loma Linda University School of Dentistry
Graduated from LLUSD in 1978, Prosthodontics Certificate LLUSD 1995, Masters degree in Health Professions Education in 2010 WHDO / LLLUSD liason
Nick greatly enjoys intercultural interaction, the natural world, and the educational process, especially the learning, growth, and rewards of education in the context of service to others.
Ed Rouhe DDS
Rouhe attended Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and received his DDS degree in 1966. Following graduation, he continued into a one year associate practice with Jim Jacobson of Westminster, CA.
Following this associate relationship, he assisted in organizing a group dental practice, The Riverside Dental Group. This group now has 7 locations with 36 dentists, comprised of general dentists and specialists, who are able to provide the range of services needed for full patient care.
He and his wife, Gloria, spent some time at the Maasai Dental Clinic a few years ago, after which he joined the board of the World Health Dental Organization. Being in Kenya again brought back many fond memories for Rouhe, as he lived in Africa until he was 15 years old. He was able to brush up on his Swahili, which pleasantly, he still remembered.
His hobbies include collecting cars, skiing, tennis, and golf.
George Gibb DDS
Home-state Missouri, attended Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska and Saint Louis University School of Dentistry
He served two years in the Army as a dentist and directed a dental assistant training program. He returned to his home town, Columbia, Missouri, where he practiced general dentistry for 41 years. He was very active in the local dental society, serving as president and promoting excellence in dentistry within the dental community. He is a lifetime member of the American Dental Association and the Missouri Dental Association. In 2009 he retired from dental practice.
Since retirement he has been on mission trips to Honduras, Haiti, and Kenya where he spent 5 weeks at the Maasai Dental Clinic. He plans to continue contributing time and money to the clinic.
He is married to Sandra (Blank), a nurse. They both feel very blessed by the Maasai Dental Clinic experience.
Robert Leo DDS
Robert Leo earned his DDS degree from Loma Linda University in December of 1978 and entered into private practice in Corona, CA.
Leo retired from active dentistry in December of 2009. His retirement has allowed him increased pursuit of his interest in mission dentistry where he has served in countries such as Fiji, Costa Rica, and Kenya.
He has been privileged to serve two 1-month terms at the Maasai Dental Clinic in Siana Springs, Kenya. Because of this interest, Leo was asked to join as a Board Member of the World Health Dental Organization where his appointment became official in December of 2014.
John Barrett DDS
Barrett has participated in many humanitarian efforts. He is active in Rotary and has written various grants for, and has participated in, projects in SE Asia, Africa, South America and Latin America. These efforts include projects for dental care, water, and health/sanitation.
He was instrumental in securing funding for the purchase of dental equipment for the Maasai Dental Clinic by obtaining a Rotary Grant. He was the first official Maasai Dental Clinic volunteer dentist, and was present for the dedication ceremony in January, 2009. He has worked at the clinic three times.
David Rempel DDS
David Rempel was born and raised in Canada. He moved to Loma Linda, California in 1990 to put his wife through the Loma Linda Foreign Graduate program at the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. They raised two children and his wife established her dental practice. He returned to school and graduated from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in 2004.
He expects to retire from practicing dentistry for financial remuneration within the next two years. His retirement plan is to spend six months a year doing missionary and humanitarian dentistry.
He worked at the Maasai Dental Clinic for the month of February, 2013, and is scheduled to return there to work the month of June, 2015. He has two grown children, and enjoys fishing and cycling.
Blake Foust DDS
Graduating from Loma LInda University School of Dentistry in 1981, Blake makes his home in Cleburne, Texas along with his wife, Paula, and 3 adult children.
Blake is a fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology.
One of his favorite ways of giving back is championing good news in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX region. He along with two others, sponsor Good News TV, a Christian station.
Wendi Kannenberg MPH
Born in eastern Montana, Wendi Kannenberg lived many years throughout the Pacific Northwest and currently resides “off the road system” in Dillingham, Alaska.
Wendi holds dual undergraduate degrees in English and nursing. She earned a Masters in Global Public Health degree in 2005 from Loma Linda University with an emphasis in research and evaluation, program development and health education. She currently oversees the Grants Administration and Health Education departments at Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation – an Alaska Native Tribal Healthcare Organization in southwest Alaska.
Wendi is married to Donivan Andregg and they have two daughters, Jessica and Karlin. In her book, combining service and travel is just the best!!
Dorinda Reyes, Web Master
She received degrees in Accounting and Computer Science, and has spent the last 25 years applying these skills at companies such as Marriott Corporate HQ, T-Mobile, Philips and Microsoft.
In her free time she enjoys playing an aggressive game of gin rummy with her husband, while sitting around a camp fire. In sparetime she spends time with their 7 furry children.
Dorinda is honored to be a member of the WHDO board.
Thank You
MDC dental assistants Grace, Eunice & Agnes 2018
- VOLUNTEER DENTISTS - Thanks for donating your skills, time & money to serve our community continuously for the last 10 years.
- DONORS - Thanks for contributing the funds that make it all work.
- WYSS FOUNDATION - Thanks for your ongoing support in making a difference in our clinic & region.
- HENRY SCHEIN CARES - Thanks for your generous contribution in equipment to keep our doctors happy!
- WHDO BOARD MEMBERS - Thanks for your commitment and leadership to growing our services.
- LLUSD - Thanks for your dedication to making it possible for students to come and further their education while caring for our people.
- SMILES FOR LIFE FOUNDATION - Thanks for showing that you care by connecting us with your amazing Crown Council dentist members.
- FRIENDS - Thanks for spreading the word that the Maasai Dental Clinic is a great place to volunteer!
