Oklahoma City Indian Clinic is hosting a virtual fundraiser to provide dentures for patients in need.
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City Indian Clinic’s (OKCIC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit clinic providing health and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma, annual Red Feather Gala will be virtual in 2021.
OKCIC’s Red Feather Gala auction will be held virtually from November 6 through 13, 2021, at www.redfeathergala.com. Those interested in participating can register for the auction, view available items or make a donation from the website.
This year the Red Feather Gala will raise funds to provide dentures for OKCIC patients in need.
“Giving people their smile back by providing dentures has been proven to increase self-esteem and improve confidence,” said Robyn Sunday-Allen, OKCIC’s Chief Executive Officer. “When people lose multiple teeth, the psychological and physiological impact becomes great. People often feel ashamed or embarrassed by their appearance and avoid doing anything that involves drawing attention to their mouth. Dentures help to improve personal and professional relationships, and help people to lead happier and more fulfilling lives.”
According to the Indian Health Service, adult American Indians are more likely than other races and ethnic groups to have untreated caries, severe periodontal disease, missing teeth and oral pain. Many American Indians also face barriers to health care, including lack of dental insurance and dental care. In 2019, OKCIC’s dental clinic saw nearly 2,000 patients for dental emergencies, and plans to serve even more patients in 2021.
“OKCIC is proud to provide excellent health care to American Indians,” Sunday-Allen said. “Providing dentures for our dental patients in need is part of our efforts to be the national model for American Indian health care.”
The virtual auction will include items like an autographed Toby Keith guitar, sports memorabilia, Native American art and jewelry, vacations, and more. Bidding will start November 6, but auction registration is open now at www.redfeathergala.com.
Every donation helps give someone their smile back. For more information and to participate in the virtual fundraiser, please visit www.refeathergala.com or email angie.c@okcic.com.
About Oklahoma City Indian Clinic
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic was established in 1974 to provide excellent health care and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma. The clinic staff cares for more than 21,000 patients from over 220 federally recognized tribes every year. American Indians can receive a range of services, including medical, dental, pediatrics, prenatal, pharmacy, optometry, physical fitness, nutrition, family programs and behavioral health services. For more information, please call (405) 948-4900 or visit www.okcic.com.
