Why were you led to start the
Fishbein Foundation?
We kept hearing stories and getting letters
about kids being bullied for their teeth or
their smiles and we felt the need to step
in and do what we could to help fi x these
horrible situations. We were already heavily
involved with the Pensacola Humane
Society and other small charities, so we
decided to consolidate our efforts into one
meaningful Foundation.
What is the primary focus of the
Foundation?
We love all the programs we work with,
but our EmBraces campaign is the closest
to our hearts. A few of our staff members
overcame bullying as children themselves.
The physical and emotional pain these kids
go through is unprecedented. Our everyday
job is to straighten teeth, and the best side
effect of that is a more confi dent smile. So,
we get to make a difference with what we do
on a daily basis.
How is the Fishbein Foundation
funded?
The Fishbein Foundation is funded 100%
through its parent organization, Fishbein
Orthodontics.
When was Fishbein Foundation
started?
We offi cially started the Fishbein
Foundation in 2017, but free treatment
to kids in need has been provided since
starting the practice in 2013.
How do students/patients know
about EmBraces?
We support numerous schools across the
panhandle as a Partner in Education, where
we sponsor Student of the Month, sports,
PTA events, carnivals and career days.
They promote the EmBraces Campaign
by mentioning it at events and handing
out fl yers. We also publicize through our
practice, social media, and local news
sources.
How has EmBraces had an impact
on the local community?
We have had the pleasure of giving free
orthodontic treatment to so many kids
in need. Once an EmBraces entry wins,
they become a FishOrtho Anti-bullying
Ambassador, and help us spread awareness
at their schools and through our social
media. We get updates about how treatment
has not only changed their lives but the
students around them as well.
How many patients/students have
been helped/impacted? ($)
We have pledged $1Million in smiles
over 5 years, but after the fi rst year, we are
already on pace to do that in less than 4
years. We will help hundreds of children
whose families may not be able to afford
treatment otherwise.
Is there a specifi c success story you
can share?
Our 1st grand prize winner’s name is
Kyra. Her story was one of the fi rst we
received and had the whole offi ce in tears.
A girl who once loved school was scared
and had to switch schools multiple times
because of bullies. Receiving braces has
changed her tune and her mom has told us
that she is now more confi dent than ever
and has stood up to her bullies and moved
on, loving school again.
What is one thing you want readers
to know about EmBraces?
Our main goal is to spread awareness.
Bullying is an epidemic that we feel is only
getting worse. We want students to know
we support them and want their parents
and teachers to be conscious of what could
be going on when they aren’t looking.
How can someone get involved in
the EmBraces program?
You can learn more or submit an essay or
video on our website at FishOrtho.com/
EmBraces.
What does the future of the
Fishbein Foundation look like?
We want to solve as many problems as
possible for as many people as possible. We
will continue our efforts for as long as we
can.
Interview with Dr. Ben Fishbein
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