Nice Guys Awards - Organization Winner
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The Nice Guys awards are sponsored by Acacia Federal Savings Bank, serving the DC area since 1985. As a local small business, we’re committed to the success of individuals and other companies – from one-person companies to multimillion dollar firms.

 

Hard Work. High Standards. Helping Others.
 
Organization Winners

Who they are: The Northern Virginia Dental Society

What they do: Provide volunteer dental care to low-income families

Why they do it: Help families maintain healthy teeth with dignity

"There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you have saved a smile."
-- Cathy Griffanti, Executive Director



Many people in Northern Virginia lack the resources to pay for dental care -- but thousands of them have sparkling smiles nevertheless, thanks to a program of the Northern Virginia Dental Society (NVDS).

In 1994, members of NVDS opened the Northern Virginia Dental Clinic to provide services in   professional, positive environment. Over the last dozen years, they've helped more than 20,000 people through more than 56,000 appointments.

Volunteer dentists, hygienists and receptionists ensure a smooth operation; up-to-date technology helps them provide excellent care. Patients receive an array of services -- cleanings, fillings, root canal therapy, oral surgery, minor periodontal care, full and partial dentures and crowns.

To make the program possible, NVDS has partnered with local governments and service agencies across Northern Virginia, from the city of Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church to Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties.

 

Local Care, National Scope

"Our members are dedicated to this program," says Cathy Griffanti, executive director of the NVDS. "They know they're playing an important role in so many lives - people who, without their help, could end up with long-term complications." In addition to providing approximately 2,500 hours of service annually, they contribute up to $30,000 each year to make the program possible. Typically they provide more than 4,500 appointments to more than 1,500 people annually.

NVDS also participates in two service days per year, where they bring dental care to the community: Mission of Mercy (MOM), a Virginia-wide project, and Give Kids a Smile, a nationwide effort. Temporary clinics are set up in areas where families are below the poverty line; appointments are made on a first-come, first-served basis.

"NVDS members have felt their own lives enriched by enriching the lives of others. More and More dentists are contributing their time and skills to keep our programs growing. Seeing a child's smile goes right to the heart - it makes it all worth it," says Griffanti.

For more details about the Northern Virginia Dental Clinic, visit nvds.org.

Check out the nominees from this year's Nice Guys Awards Organization Category.

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