for low-income individuals, undocumented immigrants, and Veterans at no cost. SAGE is committed to creating a healthier, happier, and more economically stable community because a healthy smile improves your overall health, enhances relationships, and causes you to glow with confidence.

Our Missionis to take money out of dental care. The SAGE Initiative believes that dental health is a right; and we assert that everyone should be guaranteed comprehensive dental treatment regardless of their income or insurance coverage.

At SAGE, we have a multicultural, bilingual staff that is committed to serve members of our community regardless of their financial resources. We believe that every single person deserves the highest quality dental treatment in addition to a warm, friendly environment that is respectful of everyone. As part of a progressive healthcare system our primary purpose is to positively change people's lives in underserved communities. This accomplished by improving people's number one asset, their smile.

'I base every dental treatment decision on the most current research using the best technology available. I have spent a lot of time, money and effort compiling what I call my Core Story. The Core Story shows everyone the importance of the health of your teeth, gums and mouth' - Dr. J.

The mouth is the gateway to of the rest of the body. Therefore, if you have an infection or problem in your mouth that means you have an infection or problem (possibly life threatening) throughout the rest of your body. The Core Story proves that your smile is your #1 asset by making you healthier, happier and ultimately improving your overall quality of life.

Dr. J is the CEO/President and founder of SAGE. Dr. J has over 20 years of experience as a Dental Health Practitioner. Dr. Js passion is public service, and he has dedicated his career to serving others. Dr. J served Active Duty Air Force and remains in the Air Force Reserve with a rank of LtCol. One weekend per month as deputy commander of his unit he receives training and provides training to airmen. The mission assures dental readiness for all troops at all times. Throughout his Active Duty and Reserve Military career, Dr. J has completed many dental relief and humanitarian missions all across the United States helping impoverished communities. His significant history of being a charitable cause activist and volunteer provided the motivation for SAGE. His leadership and passion for helping others serve as testimony that great things are possible when we commit ourselves to making a difference.

Dr. Tara is a Professor in Oral and Maxillofacial & Assistant Dean at UCLA School of Dentistry. Dr. Aghaloo is the Vice President/Secretary of SAGE. She teaches surgery to residents and dental students, performs research on bone healing and regeneration, and treats patients with oral surgical needs. She is a regular volunteer for dental and surgical outreach projects. SAGE is extremely important to her and her family, as improving the dental and oral condition is the best way to give back a person's confidence and overall health.

Gabriela Ruvalcaba is a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and the Executive Director of SAGE. Ms. Ruvalcaba received a B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration from San Diego State University and an M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has experience providing psychotherapy in a managed care facility and adolescent group homes for diverse populations with various backgrounds. As a helping professional and a charitable cause activist she has volunteered her time with other local organizations that focus on underserved populations. Her background in working with diverse populations in various settings foster a level of commitment that is necessary in making a difference in the community through the efforts of SAGE. Her hobbies include reading, hiking, traveling, volunteer work, learning and music.

Nancy is the Grant Writer for SAGE. Ms. Mendez received a B.A. in Anthropology and a B.A. in Urban Studies (emphasis in Urban Planning, Design, and Management ) from San Diego State University in 2016. She has participated in various projects that involved medical and applied anthropological research. She has experience in surveying, collecting data and interviewing diverse populations. As an anthropologist, she considers herself a 'global citizen,' and strongly values/advocates cultural diversity and equity. Her knowledge of the local culture and their unmet needs, as well as her experience in working with diverse populations is a helpful tool in assisting SAGE in the process of creating health equity. She is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, soccer, and horse riding.