Volunteer Opportunities
OCDS is constantly seeking dentists who are eager to apply their knowledge and expertise to advance organized dentistry. We greatly value the contributions of our leaders and the insights they provide to help us address the needs of our members effectively. If you’re interested in volunteering your time and gaining a deeper understanding of how organized dentistry functions, please explore the volunteer opportunities listed below.
Board of Directors – If interested, please fill out this application with your uploaded CV. Application deadline is February 28, 2025.
All Board positions are for a one-year term. Per OCDS Bylaws, all members of the Board of Directors will automatically serve a one-year term as Delegate to the CDA House during their Board term of office. The OCDS Board meets one Tuesday evening during the months of January, March, May, July, September, and November. Board meeting attendance is REQUIRED. All Board members are also required to attend a minimum of one Continuing Education meeting and two OCDS social events per year. You must also belong to an OCDS committee, attend committee meetings and report on the committee during the board of directors meetings. Availability to meet with government candidates is also required. There is the possibility of a 1 day strategic planning meeting that would be required to attend, dates are still to be determined. More information will be provided once it becomes finalized. Experience in OCDS committee work is preferred, but not mandatory. You may read our meeting guidelines here.
Position Descriptions:
Delegates/Alternate Delegates to the CDA House of Delegates –If interested, please fill out this application with your uploaded CV. Application deadline is February 28, 2025.
The CDA House of Delegates is the legislative arm of CDA. The delegates may originate, approve, or alter policy and positions of the CDA. The HOD dictates the course of action that CDA leadership and staff follow. Elected Board Members will fill 13 of the available CDA Delegate positions for OCDS. The balance of the Delegate positions will be filled by non-board members. OCDS usually has a total of 20 delegate positions.
Delegate attendance is REQUIRED for the entirety of the House of Delegates meetings. Leaving early while at the House may result in the Delegate not being eligible to participate in the future. Attendance at the All Component Caucus is highly encouraged.
The All-Component Caucus is usually held within 3 weeks prior to the HOD. Component Caucus meetings are usually held within 2 weeks prior to the House of Delegates. These meetings are held to discuss proposed resolutions, formulate strategies and to familiarize new delegates with the process.
Position Descriptions:
COMMITTEES
To join an OCDS Committee, membership in the OCDS is required, except for those applying as General Volunteers for the OCDS Dental Health Foundation. Please fill out the Volunteer Interest Form and OCDS staff will contact you as opportunities become available.
Membership Committee – Encourages retention of existing members and promotes value of membership to both members and non-members. Works closely with OCDS staff to help organize membership events and identify potential additional benefits that bring value to organized dentistry.
Wellbeing Committee – Provides confidential, non-punitive assistance and support to member dentists, hygienists, and auxiliary dental personnel experiencing mental and/or emotional distress. Assists in educating the committee and members of OCDS about burnout, substance abuse, mental health, and appropriate sources for treatment. Assist Chairman with Wellness Support Group meetings and organizing events such as the Wellness Summit.
Mentorship Program – Mentoring relationships are an excellent way to enhance professional growth and improve career satisfaction. Mentors can impart the wisdom that comes with experience and help mentees make informed career and financial choices.
Attributes of a good mentor include, but are not limited to:
- Commitment to the mentoring process
- Possession of the knowledge and influence needed
- Accessibility and approachability
- Ability to encourage and motivate others
- Creation of a continuous learning environment
- Desire to serve as a confidant and advisor
Suggested Activities:
- Dental office visit(s)
- CE Courses (in-person)
- Golfing, shopping, theatre, or sporting event
- Part-time non-clinical position in your office
- Mentors introduce mentee to colleagues with similar pursuits
- Commemorate something special in the mentee’s life
- Submit photos and information about your outing for publication in Impressions Magazine
OCDS Dental Health Foundation – The Orange County Dental Society Dental Health Foundation (OCDSDHF) was founded in 1997 as a 501(c)3 non-profit Public Benefit Corporation. This corporation is a nonprofit public benefit corporation and is not organized for the private gain of any person. It is organized under the Nonprofit Benefit Corporation Law for charitable purposes.
Our Purpose:
- To operate for the advancement of dental health care within the County of Orange
- To assist in the prevention and control of dental disease
- To improve access to comprehensive dental care for those in need
- As of 2019, OCDSDHF’s purpose is to provide free dental care to those residing in the homeless shelters of Orange County, CA
Volunteers Needed:
Board Members – Attend meetings scheduled throughout the year and oversee Foundation activities. Responsibilities include:
- Assist with community outreach and help identify organizations that the Foundation could assist with dental health events
- Help aquire monetary and/or supply donations for such events
- Attend events and provide assistance in any capacity required
General Volunteer: Help by donating your time by attending events such as:
- Events organized by OCDSDHF at various locations to provide dental treatment
- Attend healthfairs and/or community events organized by outside organizations
- Provide Pro-Bono care – will be contacted by OCDS staff to discuss. Cases will be accepted and treatment continued at your discretion.
