G-1911-15659

This investment supports the United Health Organization (UHO), as the backbone of the Wayne County Oral Health Coalition, to provide leadership, structure, and support for oral health systems- and policy change efforts in Detroit, primarily focused on faith-based networks, youth, community engagement, and seniors. The work aligns with The DentaQuest Partnership priority to engage grassroots partners in systems-change advocacy that promotes health equity in Michigan. Since 2018, UHO has served as the backbone and convening organization of the Wayne County Oral Health Coalition, a group working on advocacy and oral health systems change, specifically around elementary and community college oral health curricula, faith-based outreach, and improving dental access for seniors. Specific 2020 activities include: providing equity and advocacy trainings for coalition members, outreaching to legislators, and expanding the coalition. $80,000 will support staff time, mini-grants, meetings, office space, and other administrative costs.