Something to Smile About: KINDness Gala

A smile is so simple and oh-so powerful. Our smile helps ease the way as we inch into a packed elevator. It is the silent thank you to the person who stopped their shopping cart so we could roll on. Or, it may be the only bright spot in someone else’s long day. It’s often the beautiful default of children. Yet, some children have a hard time smiling and need dental care. Kids In Need of Dentistry (KIND) helps children, and their families, get back to bright smiles. For more than 100 years, KIND has helped thousands of children each year get the dental services they need at a cost their families can afford. Recently the organization celebrated its work at its 3^rd annual Expressions of KINDness Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel. Of course, there was a lot to smile about.

It was a night of good shopping. Many mouth-watering silent auction items greeted guests during the cocktail hour. You could pamper yourself at a spa, insure yourself with a top-notch first-aid kit for the car, adorn yourself in sparkling jewelry, or entertain yourself by being a guest on live radio. The choices were surprising and fun.

KIND Board President Caitlyn Fagan shared that when she brought the board together for a retreat she asked them about their “why” for getting involved in the non-profit. The common response was that what KIND does matters. It matters to the child, their parents and entire families. KIND is needed. And the organization’s numbers give context to that need. Each year they serve thousands of children throughout the state. Caitlyn does her fair share of getting the word out about that.

“If you know me personally, you know about KIND. I talk about KIND at the gym, at work, at happy hour; really anywhere there is a small lull in the conversation,” said Caitlyn.

The vivacious Shelly St. John from The Auction Divas revved up the audience with a rousing round of “Heads or Tails”. The game was played for an assortment of wine of spirits. The batch of booze was so big the winner would be covered for holidays, holiday gifts and assorted dinner parties. Each flip of the coin drew lots of cheers and groans depending on the side the bidder chose. It was a fun way to get the group warmed up to bid on the many enticing items to come. Sports items proved a big draw with signed footballs and helmets, but travel could also call to the bidder with trips to New York and Napa.

“It’s overwhelming to see how many people support our organization,” shared a beaming Julie Collett, KIND’s Executive Director.

Sally Walker, Association Director, echoed her sentiment. “I am thrilled so many are here. So many people connect with KIND. It’s heartwarming.”

The youngest, brightest smile came from five-year-old Madeline who was most excited about being dressed-up and out with her dad. And with a huge grin she modeled her “up-do” hairdo. She had lots to smile about.

KIND’s mission is to increase the health and happiness of Colorado children in need by eliminating disease through treatment and education. And for more than a century they have been doing just that. Bringing smiles and being with those who care about smiles is a big “why” of the KIND gala.