#United States #New York #Smile Train #World Smile Day #Smile Wall

Smile Train Launches Global 'Smile Wall' Campaign for World Smile Day®

As World Smile Day® approaches on October 3, Smile Train—recognized as the world’s largest organization focused on cleft care—is excited to unveil its newest initiative: the Smile Wall campaign. This heartwarming global endeavor aims to foster community connections and spread joy while simultaneously raising awareness for children affected by clefts, a condition that can create significant challenges in everyday life.

The Essence of Smile Walls

Starting today and extending through the first week of October, Smile Walls will be established in public venues worldwide, such as hospitals, schools, and community centers. These walls may be both physical and digital platforms designed for individuals to express themselves by sharing messages, drawings, and thoughts about what brings them happiness. By transforming blank canvases into visual masterpieces of positivity, Smile Train invites everyone to participate and showcase the power of a smile.

"Our hope is for this campaign to serve as a reminder that the things that make us smile can also inspire others to do the same," explained Susannah Schaefer, President and CEO of Smile Train. Through this collective effort, the organization aims to ignite a chain reaction of smiles that enhance the well-being of communities while advocating for those living with cleft conditions.

Statistics reveal that every three minutes, a child is born with a cleft lip or palate. This facial difference poses various challenges, including difficulties with eating, speaking, hearing, and breathing. The Smile Walls symbolize how a simple smile can hold profound significance—not just in brightening someone's day, but also offering a glimpse into a brighter and healthier future for children with clefts.

Embracing Joy and Positivity

Dan Carriero, Smile Train's Global Creative Director, emphasized the importance of World Smile Day®, saying, "This day presents a unique opportunity to highlight the significance of smiles. Participating in our Smile Wall project allows individuals to share meaningful moments that resonate with joy, illustrating how these small acts of happiness can create something far greater."

World Smile Day®, traditionally observed on the first Friday of October, encourages actions that uplift others and pays homage to the iconic yellow smiley face emblem. To join in the festivities, individuals can visit their local Smile Wall installations or create their own in schools, workplaces, or community centers. Moreover, members of the public are encouraged to craft and contribute to an online digital Smile Wall, expanding the reach of positivity and connection.

For more details on how to participate and spread smiles in your environment, visit Smile Train’s World Smile Day page.

About Smile Train

Founded with a mission to empower local medical professionals, Smile Train provides training, funding, and resources to facilitate free cleft surgery and comprehensive care for children around the globe. Their approach presents a sustainable and scalable health model for cleft management, significantly enhancing children's lives by improving their capacity to eat, breathe, speak, and thrive.

To learn more about Smile Train's transformative programs and how their efforts yield both immediate and long-lasting impacts through donations, explore their website at smiletrain.org.

For media inquiries, contact:
Emily Gay
Public Relations Strategist
[email protected]
(561) 308-0089

Join the movement of smiles—whether in person or online—and play an impactful role in supporting children affected by clefts this World Smile Day®!