Dyan Campbell, RN, BSN, MPH, PRASAD Children's Dental Health Program, 465 Brickman Road, Hurleyville, NY 12747, 914-797-6159, dyanc@prasad.org and Laurie Kehl, PRASAD CDHP, 1080D South White Road, San Jose, CA 95127.

MIKE THE MIGHTY MOLAR MENDER is an original play written by staff at PRASAD CDHP, designed to teach children about good oral health habits in a fun, interactive, memorable way. It was presented first in rural county schools in Sullivan County New York, then brought to the urban migrant community in San Jose California. In San Jose PRASAD received funding from the First Five Initiative for multiple years to provide "dental events". In partnership with the Willow Glen Children's Theatre MIKE THE MIGHTY MOLAR MENDER was adapted and enhanced for the San Jose community. The plays were performed in the local schools in the evenings. Families ccme and dental screenings are given to everyone who does not have a family dentist. Referrals for care, if needed, are made at the same time. A delicious healthy buffet dinner is provided through donations from several local restaurants feeding an average of 150 people an evening. The play receives enthusiastic responses with children yelling out, telling Mike where he can find "Streppy" and "Mutans" and how to get rid of them. The play is followed by a short Questions and Answer time, and prizes are given. The staff has been very pleased and amazed at the accuracy of information understood and feedback given at the end of each performance. Each theatre goer receives a toothbrush kit containing a toothbrush, floss,toothpaste and fun dental games. MIKE THE MIGHTY MOLAR MENDER gives families a great evening of learning and builds a sense of community. You can hear it in their laughter and see it as they leave in their bright beaming smlles.

Learning Objectives:

• *The audience will understand how a children's dental play teaches the importance of good oral health in a fun, engaging, interactive and memorable way.
• *The audience will learn how the play was used to leverage funds to support and unite various aspects of the community.
• *The audience will be stimulated to return to their communities and use dental health education and services as a pivotal point for community empowerment.

Keywords: Community Development, Oral Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.