genR8TNext, a dental lecture and seminar group committed to "making life better for the next generation" announced at its semi-annual meeting (held this past weekend in Orlando, Fla.) the group's support for the work of Smiles Against Hate, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing hate crimes and promoting multicultural understanding.
genR8Ting Smiles, the exclusive fund raising branch of genR8TNext, will team with Smiles Against Hate to help stop hate crimes and intolerance. The organizations will work to foster a greater level of awareness, understanding and respect among individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life.
"The genR8Ting Smiles and Smiles Against Hate partnership is about building a greater quality of life for future generations," said Mike Maroon, DDS, founder of genR8TNext and genR8Ting Smiles. "The genR8Ting Smiles program highlights the role of dentists as caring advocates of diversity and understanding in their own communities."
genR8TNext has invited its members to participate in the genR8Ting Smiles fund-raising program scheduled to run from April 19-June 30, 2002. During the program, participating dentists will donate the time they spend on tooth whitening treatments and their dental teams will donate their time for impressions, tray fabrication, distribution of whitening materials and follow-up. Ultradent Products, Inc. will donate their award winning tooth-bleaching product, Opalescence. All patient fees generated from these tooth-whitening treatments will be contributed directly to the national Smiles Against Hate program.
"We're excited about this partnership," said Juanita Benioni, PhD, executive director of Smiles Against Hate. "We have a shared vision with genR8TNext to make life better for future generations. The realization is, together we can be instrumental in fostering cultural healing. Our vision is a society where strong cultural bridges are built and humans are cherished for their uniqueness. This partnership will bring this vision one step closer to reality."
"This is a wonderful opportunity for people who want to become involved in their communities," said Maroon. "A healthy, bright smile can build confidence and help people feel better about themselves. Participating in this program can be positive in two ways. The patient is investing in that brighter, healthier looking smile they've always wanted and they feel great knowing they've contributed to helping stop a hate crime. It's a win-win opportunity which can benefit communities all over the country."
