Operation Smile has transformed lives around the world by providing care to patients for more than 40 years.
- Cleft Explained Get the basics on cleft conditions.
- Surgery and Beyond Learn how cleft care is more than surgery.
- Real-Life Stories Read stories from our patients and volunteers.
Using AI to Help Create New Smiles and Rebuild Lives

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Give children the chance to grow up without life-threatening health problems and social stigma.
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Since our founding in 1982, Operation Smile has believed that access to safe surgery is not a privilege, but a universal human right.
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- Cleft Explained
- Surgery and Beyond
- Real-Life Stories
- Where We Work
- Health Workforce Strengthening
- Youth Empowerment
- Policy and Advocacy
- Strategic Partners
- Thought Leadership
- Ways to Give
- Share Your Medical Expertise
- Student Programs
- Advocate for Us
- Partner With Us
- Our Story and Impact
- Our Leadership
- Corporate Partners
- Financials and Reports
- News and Media
- Interactive Learning Center
- Careers

Dave Nichols

Senior Development Director

Contact Dave

Dave Nichols serves as the senior development director for Operation Smile’s US philanthropy development team. While working to support the efforts of our development directors, he will continue to steward the engagement of key supporters across the US. Sharing the impact of individual major gifts and the life-changing results that we achieve in partnership with our supporters is one of his passions.

Honoring the hopes and intentions of philanthropists who choose to make the world a better place is at the top of his priorities. He takes great pride in working to expand the reach and impact of Operation Smile. Having the opportunity to hear the passions of our supporters and seeing the life-changing outcomes of our global missions brings him gratitude on a daily basis.

Cleft conditions affect millions of children worldwide, affecting their health and wellbeing. Your gift can help transform lives.

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You can give children a chance to grow up without life-threatening health problems, social stigma, isolation and feelings of hopelessness.

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Your gift today will help transform lives and increase access to essential surgical care.

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