The Alpha Omega Foundation of Canada (AOF) is a registered nonprofit charitable foundation established on November 17, 1970, under Canadian law. It operates as a separate but closely affiliated entity within the global network of Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity charitable organizations, including foundations in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel[1][3][5].

History and Overview

The foundation emerged from the vision of Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity leadership to create a dedicated charitable arm to support dentistry and oral health initiatives worldwide. This vision was first articulated in 1968 by Dr. Albert Weiser, then International President of Alpha Omega, who proposed the establishment of a foundation independent of the fraternity but aligned with its values[5].

In September 1969, the Alpha Omega Foundation of the United States was incorporated, and shortly thereafter, the Alpha Omega Foundation of Canada was officially incorporated in November 1970. The Canadian foundation celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020, marking half a century of charitable work supporting dental professionals and dental research in Canada and beyond[5].

Mission and Activities

The AOF is committed to upholding the ideals of ethical professionalism and philanthropy within the dental community. Its mission focuses on supporting dental education, dental research, and various oral health initiatives. The foundation primarily serves members of the Alpha Omega Dental Fraternity in Canada, all of whom are members of the foundation and contribute through nominal annual dues, typically collected through local chapters[1][2].

One hallmark program began in 1991 when Dr. Mervyn Gornitsky proposed the establishment of a Research Project Grant program. This initiative supports original dental research conducted at Canadian institutions, prioritizing projects led by Alpha Omega members. Since its inception, the foundation has disbursed over $222,000 to 144 research projects, with an annual budget of up to $10,000 dedicated to research grants[5].

Collaboration and Global Impact

The Alpha Omega Foundation of Canada participates in the International Alliance of Alpha Omega Charitable Organizations, formed in 2011 to foster communication and collaboration among Alpha Omega foundations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Israel. This alliance facilitates sharing of resources, reduces duplication of efforts, and promotes international fundraising projects that support global oral health initiatives, such as the Global Oral Health Initiative (GOHI)[1].

Governance and Funding

The foundation’s Board of Directors meets annually, usually in November, to allocate donations either according to donor designation or based on the foundation's priorities. Donations are used to fund education, research, and aid programs that benefit the dental profession and oral health causes. The foundation emphasizes its role in enabling dental professionals to give back to the community through financial and in-kind contributions, reflecting a commitment to professionalism and ethical standards[1][2].

The Alpha Omega Foundation of Canada remains a significant charitable entity within the Canadian dental community, dedicated to advancing dental research, education, and oral health on both a national and international scale.