History and Mission - Operation Smile founded by William and Kathleen Magee in 1982 - Non-profit medical services organization - Provides free cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries to children - Aims to improve access to safe surgical care for children in low-income countries - Has conducted missions in 18 countries

Global Impact - Over 240,000 surgical procedures performed worldwide - Trained over 5,000 local medical professionals - Conducts medical missions in underserved areas - Collaborates with local healthcare providers and governments - Focuses on building sustainable healthcare infrastructure

Recognition and Partnerships - Accredited by the Better Business Bureau - Member of Independent Charities of America - Partnerships with corporate sponsors like Microsoft, Hasbro, and Sephora - Collaborates with local NGOs and healthcare organizations - Receives support from celebrities like Kate Hudson and Roma Downey

Controversies and Challenges - Faced criticism for child deaths during missions in 1999 - Implemented changes and improvements in response to the criticism - Experienced a decade-long feud between charity leaders - Merged with Smile Train in 2011 to enhance impact and efficiency - Continues to face challenges in providing sustainable healthcare solutions

Fundraising and Expansion - Relocated headquarters to Virginia Beach in 2007 - Utilizes various fundraising campaigns and events - Collaborates with corporate partners for fundraising initiatives - Expands its reach through media and awareness campaigns - Continues to grow and expand its programs globally