CORALVILLE, Iowa (KCRG) — Hundreds of volunteers in Coralville are preparing to provide free dental care to more than 1,000 people over a two-day period at Iowa Mission of Mercy’s annual clinic.
Kobi Voshell first volunteered with the clinic in 2009 and says the experience inspired him to pursue a career in dentistry.
“I realized I wanted to help people in need, not just fix problems, but educate them to prevent future issues,” Voshell said.
Now a practicing dentist, Voshell has participated in nearly every Iowa Mission of Mercy clinic since 2018. The event relies on a network of more than 1,300 volunteers, not just dental professionals.
“It’s hard to find something that has this much impact in such a short time,” said Candace Gagliardo, a volunteer coordinator who has supported the nonprofit for 14 years. Gagliardo is leading Thursday’s setup and says the effort makes a tangible difference in the community.
“The world stops when you come here. You’re immediately engaged in helping a neighbor, a community member, or a friend get something they truly need,” Gagliardo said.
The clinic will provide more than basic cleanings. Attendees can also receive fillings, root canals, and dental care for children.
Voshell emphasizes the importance of the service, noting that many people cannot afford routine dental care.
“Many dental insurance plans act more like coupons than true coverage,” he said. “This clinic helps reduce costs, offering real support for those who need it most.”
By Thursday afternoon, a few people had already begun camping outside in anticipation of the clinic’s opening on Friday. Voshell says the clinic’s impact extends beyond dental health.
“In America, having your front teeth can be crucial for employment. Being able to provide these services to patients over the next two days is life-changing,” he said.
The Iowa Mission of Mercy clinic will open to the public Friday and Saturday morning and will continue until the venue reaches capacity.