August 19, 2008

A local teen is helping to change the world, one smile at a time.

Western Albemarle High School senior, Alex Politis is preparing to serve on an overseas medical mission with a non-profit called, Operation Smile. Politis spent one week training with 46 other student volunteers from across the country at San Diego State University.

“You know you’re not going to know anyone there, but they kind of throw you into a group of people you don’t know. Within a couple of days they want you to work together,” student volunteer, Alex Politis said.

The teens are working together with a common goal of making a difference across the world, and close to home.

“I do want to make a difference within our community and also I want to help spread the word, and tell other people about it. I want other kids to see they have the chance to go on these missions,” Politis said.

A chance to travel to third world counties, providing care, like as oral re-hydration therapy, burn care and prevention, and proper nutrition and dental care.

“It's just an experience where you get to go and take care of kids in a third world country that done have the care that we have in the United States,” Politis said.

Organizers caution the volunteers that the missions can be somewhat of an emotional rollercoaster. Training videos and workshops prepare volunteers for the images they will see and the stories they will hear.

“It's like a heart breaking feeling, but then you also kids coming out with fixed clef pallets and the look in their moms eyes is indescribable,” Politis said.

What can be described is the sense of accomplishment and fulfillment volunteer receive from giving kids a chance at a better life.

“You shouldn't be afraid of what’s different. When you actually go to the country you just embrace what’s different and you see the little kids and the smile on their faces and how they're even happier when your there to help them,” Politis said.

In December, Politis will participate in a mission trip to Vijayawada, India.

Operation smile is a non-profit headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia. For more information visit www.operationsmile.org.