How One Family's Commitment to Service Helped Launch a Mobile Dental Clinic That Changed a State

On February 25, 2007, a 12-year-old boy named Deamonte Driver died from untreated dental decay. His death exposed failures in the healthcare system. It also set something important in motion.

When Jim Kitch heard the news, he started asking questions. His search led him to the National Dental Association and two leaders determined to prevent another tragedy: Dr. Hazel Harper and Dr. Belinda Carver Taylor.

Jim recognized their fierce commitment. They recognized his sincerity. A partnership took root.

Building the Foundation

By May 2007, Jim was sharing everything he knew about mobile health programs, state regulations, and clinic operations. He attended his first NDA Corporate Roundtable meeting in Atlanta that July, where he met 27 NDA leaders from across the country.

Over the next year, he reviewed legislative testimony, provided job descriptions for drivers and maintenance technicians, and supported grant writing efforts. Dr. Harper submitted a proposal to fund the Deamonte Driver Dental Project in May 2008.

Six months later, Maryland's Governor launched the project at Deamonte's school. He presented a check for $288,000 to purchase and operate a mobile dental unit. ADI would manufacture the clinic.

Results in the Field

While the permanent unit was being built, ADI provided a rental clinic. The team got to work immediately.

In Spring 2009, the mobile unit visited nine Title 1 schools. Staff performed 1,635 exams and referrals. Nearly 300 children needed urgent care. Forty-three volunteer dentists logged more than 255 hours.

The program helped move Maryland from near last in the country for children's oral health to first.

In May 2010, ADI delivered the completed mobile dental clinic. The ribbon cutting took place on Capitol Hill. Jim and his father Tim received awards for their contributions.

A Legacy of Service

The Kitch family has participated in healthcare mission trips to Haiti for more than 30 years. Jim traveled there with NDA doctors to expand access to dental care. These experiences shaped his belief in the power of mobile clinics to reach people who would otherwise go without treatment.

Today, Amy Kitch Bown and her husband Jason continue the family's work with ADI Mobile Health. When they attend NDA events, members welcome them immediately: "You are family."

Amy finds purpose in supporting customers in the field and seeing mobile clinics bring hope to communities. For many patients, these units offer their only opportunity for care.

The Work Continues

ADI Mobile Health builds high quality, long lasting mobile clinics. We maintain meaningful relationships with the communities we serve.

Jim Kitch stepped forward when help was needed. He offered support freely because he believed in the mission and cared about the people behind it. His example reminds us what becomes possible when committed partners work toward a shared purpose.

Mile after mile.