Bright Smiles, Brighter Futures: An Evening That Changes Lives

October 03, 2025

Bright Smiles, Brighter Futures: An Evening That Changes Lives

Join us October 23rd at Bright Smiles, Brighter Futures! The evening of celebration and connection supports the integral work of the Ben Massell Dental Clinic (BMDC).

About the Event

Guests will enjoy light bites, drinks, and the chance to mingle with friends, old and new. There will also be plenty of opportunities to bid on the tempting live auction, which will feature exclusive vacation packages and luxury experiences. Guests can feel good knowing that every dollar raised goes directly to support BMDC.

Ben Massell Dental Clinic is Georgia’s only free dental clinic, run entirely by volunteer dentists. BMDC provides everything from cleanings and fillings to dentures and specialty treatments to thousands of low-income patients each year. For these patients, the clinic offers more than a healthy smile; it restores confidence, dignity, and hope.

"Bright Smiles, Brighter Futures is going to be a very special evening to eat, drink, and connect with the community," says Emily Hunter, Development and Outreach Officer for the clinic. "It's an amazing opportunity to celebrate the work of our incredible volunteers while also highlighting the vital impact of the clinic on the lives of our patients."

Celebrating Those Who Serve

At the heart of the clinic is Barbara Jones, who will be recognized at the event for her incredible 50 years of dedicated service. She started at BMDC as a young dental assistant and is now the Director. Barbara oversees daily operations, supports and recruits volunteer dentists, and ensures every patient feels seen and heard; her colleagues refer to her as the backbone and heart of BMDC.

Barbara’s philosophy is simple: “people want to know someone cares,” she says. And she certainly does care: decades of her mentorship and guidance have left a lasting impact, not only on patients but on every volunteer and staff member she works alongside. Barbara ensures the clinic is more than a place for dentistry—it is a place of dignity and hope.

We are pleased to be honoring the following exceptional individuals at the event:

Dr. Jack Bickford – Volunteer of the Year

Dr. Jonathan Dubin – Ben Massell Legacy Award

Dr. Mollie Winston – Champion of Philanthropy

Barbara Jones – 50 Years of Dedicated Service

Deborah Silcox, Georgia State Representative – Community Advocacy

Join the Celebration

Bright Smiles, Brighter Futures is more than an evening out: it’s a chance to connect, celebrate, and support a clinic that transforms lives every day. Come for the fun, stay for the stories, and leave knowing that your support is helping create brighter futures, one smile at a time.