
The Kids in Need of Dentistry (KIND) 5th Annual Expressions of KINDness Gala was held Friday, Sept 16 at the The Studio Loft at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in downtown Denver. This year’s event was called “Denim and Diamonds” and included bolo ties, fancy leather vests, stylish cowboy boots and other western wear.
KIND is the oldest dental charity in the United States and the recognized leader in promoting the oral health of Colorado’s children. The evening featured auctioneer Gary Corbett and live music by the Narrow Gauge band with key Sponsors: UMB, Henry Schein, Dr. Jennifer Thompson, Commerce Bank, and Patterson Dental. Guests enjoyed a silent auction and an engaging cocktail hour before the event’s festivities.
Executive Director Julie Collett and Board President Kerrie Bunce– VP/Relationship Officer at sponsor UMB Bank thanked guests and sponsors for their support. The evening of celebration was dedicated to honoring individuals who have supported KIND’s mission through volunteerism, providing services, financial support and partnerships. The annual Gala also recognizes families who have benefited from KIND services in the communities the organization serves.
This year’s Award Honorees are:
• Randy and Alexa Kowalczyk
• Dr. Nellie Barr & Dr. Sean Whalen
• Mental Health Center of Denver
MHCD-Dahlia Campus for Health and Well-Being
• KIND Family Award Winner Isaiah Alfonso with parents, Pete & Dawn
KIND is always looking for volunteers. Whether you’re a dentist that would like to spend a day in one of our clinics or a supporter that wants to give their time to helping with an event, please contact the KIND office at 303-733-3710 or visit the web site at www.kindsmiles.org
- Alexandrai Chacon, Ron Ramirez
- Allison Brown, Kimberly Engols
- The event was held at the Studio Loft at Ellie Caulkins Opera House
- A wide variety of desserts for guests
- Adam McDermott, Dom Karaba, Mark Collier, Amie Levesque
- Lee and Sherry Earnhardt
- Ignacio Ortega, Amy Maurer, Chrisling Reins, Paul Jerez
- Honoree: Isaiah Alfonso
- Jenni Silva, Randy Whitlow
- Jess Klotsche, Georgia Neimeister, Anne Barnhart
- Jordan Alvillar, Julie Kiewit
- Julie Collett thanks guests and sponsors
- Julie Collett, Dr. Sheldon Newman
- Julie Collett, Auctioneer Gary Corbett
- Blacktie’s own Kenton Kuhn displays portable bidding tablets
- KIND Chair Kerrie Bunce
- Kimberly Engols, Dr. Sheldon Newman, Allison Brown
- Lael and Greg Massington, Greg and Joanne Sherwood
- Lydia Prado, VP of MHCD Child Services and Dr. Carl Clark, President/CEO of Mental Health Center of Denver
- The Narrow Gauge band entertained guests
- Pat and Jean Sandos, Veronica Maes, Pam Linan
- Patterson Family: Alex, Commie, Feather, Matt, Bob, Shawn, and Kelly
- Paul Jerez, Chris Goodale, Kayla Casteel
- Rebecca Berry, Myrna Rodriguez
- Rick Durity and Mary Haynes
- Sara Stark, Sarah Swick
- Silent auction items
- Ted Mentry, Kerrie Bunce, Dusty Hines, Andrew Rapp
- KIND Chair Kerry Bunce thanks guests and sponsors