We lead with equity in our work to achieve good oral health for all.

Arcora Foundation advances oral health across Washington state. We are the largest foundation in the state dedicated to this cause. We offer grants and sponsorships for projects that support oral health. See our current opportunities. 

Our mission is in our name.

Arcora’s mission is to bend the arc of oral health toward equity. Our name combines arc with the first three letters of oral and reflects our commitment to equity. 

With our 2022-2024 strategic plan, our work is centered in equity to achieve good oral health for all. We have deepened the focus of our prevention and access priorities on racial and ethnic communities—specifically Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)—where disparities in oral disease and access to care are significant. Learn about our initiatives and programs. 

Data show oral health disparities in Washington are largely along racial and ethnic lines. For example, the rate of untreated decay for Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 2^nd and 3^rd graders is 26%. That’s more than twice the rate for white children—10%. For American Indian/Alaska Native children the same age, the rate is 19%; for Black children, the rate is 18%. 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are essential to our work. Learn more about our commitment to DEI. 

Work built on partnerships. 

At Arcora Foundation, we advance oral health through partnerships that include: 

• Dental and medical communities. 
• Policymakers. 
• Grantees. 
• State and national groups. 
• Local and state associations. 
• Non-profit organizations. 
• Communities.  

 We are thought leaders who help make long-term oral health improvements through: 

• Policy advocacy. 
• Systems change. 
• Public and private partnerships. 
• Funding. 

Our work to advance oral health has gained national recognition. Other states have adopted our approaches and strategies.  

Health equity means fair and just opportunities for everyone to prevent oral disease and access care when and where they need it without barriers. See highlights of work we’ve done with partners to advance oral health. 

Our governance and ties to Delta Dental of Washington. 

Arcora Foundation has a Board of Trustees who have expertise in: 

• Dental and medical professions. 
• Community-based organizations. 
• Government. 
• Public health. 
• Business.  

Our talented Board is committed to responsible governance and fulfillment of our vision, mission, and priorities. 

Arcora is the foundation of Delta Dental of Washington (DDWA)—which is our primary funder. We share a vision which is for all people to enjoy good oral and overall health with no one left behind. 

DDWA—formerly Washington Dental Service—formed Arcora Foundation—formerly Washington Dental Service Foundation—in 1985. 

DDWA was one of the first dental benefits companies in the country. It began in 1954 when the Longshoremen’s Union decided to finance an experimental dental benefits program so the children of union members could have better access to dental services. Arcora carries on that spirit of social justice and response to community needs in the work we do today. 

Arcora Foundation is a 501(c)4, a tax status we share with DDWA. This status allows us to, among other things, promote causes and lobby.