SUCCESS STORIES: CDBG-Funding, Donated Dental Services, and Dennis

October 6, 2023

Dennis felt that his teeth held back his work in mental health advocacy. All that changed with his new smile.

Today, as I receive my new dentures, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude and feel compelled to express my heartfelt appreciation for [the Donate Dental Team’s] incredible support. This isn’t merely about granting me a new smile; it’s about orchestrating a pivotal moment of transformation in my life.

My journey as a mental health advocate has always been driven by a desire to inspire, connect, and foster hope. However, a shadow of self-consciousness, due to the condition of my teeth, often dampened my confidence. Engaging with audiences, while simultaneously battling these insecurities, was a challenge that I grapple with daily.

[Donated Dental’s] generous sponsorship and the unparalleled expertise of [their] staff and dentists have not only equipped me with a renewed aesthetic but have also bolstered my self-assuredness. I cannot overstate how exceptional it was to work with each member of [their] team. Their professionalism, combined with genuine care and understanding, made this journey so much more than a dental procedure; it was a deeply personal and transformative experience.

The gift of these dentures goes beyond the physical. It’s a testament to Donated Dental’s commitment to changing lives, one smile at a time. Today, as I wear this new smile, I feel an invigorated sense of purpose, and I am eager to dive into my advocacy work with a zeal that was once held back by my insecurities.

The world needs more organizations like Donated Dental, where actions are deeply rooted in compassion and understanding–[their] work has had a profound impact on my life. Every time I smile, speak, or engage in my advocacy, it will be a reflection of [their] generosity and expertise.

All client names have been changed. All stories and photos shared on the Housing Stability Division website are shared with permission. If you wish to submit your own success story, or for more information on multimedia release authorizations, you can email housingstabiliy@slc.gov, or call 801-535-7712.