Named in honor of our founder, Mrs. Virginia “Gini” Brown, the Gini Awards recognize orthodontic providers, volunteers and individuals who have gone above and beyond to inspire hope, raise self-esteem and help change the lives of children across North America.
On March 22nd, 2014, The following honorees were recognized and celebrated at a reception held their honor at Central Exchange in downtown Kansas City, MO.
4th Annual Gini Award Honorees
Orthodontic Providers
An SCL provider since 2009, Dr. Hannah and his staff have been a positive force in the growth and success of SCL. Having treated 126 SCL and Jones Foundation participants, Dr. Hannah is an inspiration to us all! Smiles Change Lives is very fortunate to have such an outstanding provider orthodontist, and his amazing staff, on our team.
A member of our provider family since 2009, Dr. Kovacs has an extraordinary enthusiasm for SCL. His passion for increasing the self esteem and creating bright futures for SCL participants and their families is inspiring. He has agreed to treat 40 qualified youth, per year, in Montana. He recently purchased a Hummer, branded the “Brace Bus” to transport the kids who are unable to find a ride to their appointments.
Dr. Lindsay Resmer has been a part of the SCL family of providers since 2011, creating smiles that change the lives of SCL participants. Her screenings of applicants has played a major part in moving the application process to its high success rate. We thank Dr. Resmer as well as the assistants at Resmer Orthodonticsfor their outstanding support to the SCL staff, and going above and beyond for SCL youth.
Volunteers
Mr. Charles Kirmse
Charles has the qualities that make him an outstanding asset to our volunteer program. Beginning in September of 2013, and while juggling the demands of work, pre dental school and family, Charles volunteered his time and talents Wednesdays and Thursdays whenever possible. He supports the SCL staff in a variety of ways, takes his weekly support of SCL very seriously, and his attention to detail is exceptional. With over 100 hours of service, we are honored to have Charles as part of our volunteer family.
Ms. Anna Sloan
Having donated over 100 hours of service to SCL, Anna’s meticulous work ethic and passion for giving back to the community, has made her a most deserving recipient of this year’s Gini Award. Whether supporting the SCL staff with data entry of applicants, or moving mountains of mail, Anna is one of our most thorough and conscientious volunteers. Currently working at Dental Innovations, and with her sights on dental school, Anna still finds time in her busy life to support our team.
Sponsors
Mr. Andrew and Mrs. Patricia Brown
Andy and Pat Brown are at the heart of every Gini Awards program. Their yearly sponsorship has allowed us to carry on this premier event, recognizing individuals who have made SCL what it is today. Because of their generosity, it is only fitting that we honor Mr. and Mrs. Brown with a 2013 Gini Award!
Community Partners
Ms. Maria Hoheusle– 2KIND Project
Maria, owner and founder of 2KIND Project, created her unique company for one reason: To make a difference. Her 2KIND Project is a small, for-profit company that raises money for selected charities. Maria sells items online and donates 30% of the profit to a life-changing organization. In 2013, Maria put her heart and soul into raising funds for SCL’s mission. We are honored to be the recipient of Maria’s fundraising and ambassadorship.
Mr. Reuben Paulsen
Mr. Reuben Paulsen, Treasurer of the Smiles Change Lives Board, is a Certified Public Accountant. Mr. Paulsen has worked in various companies until beginning his own accounting firm, in 1997, where he specializes in small business accounting. In addition to his meticulous attention to detail, Mr. Paulsen is critical to the organization’s budgeting process.
Distinguished Service Award
Dr. Dustin Burleson is an SCL provider whose vision and caring infuses our organization with enthusiasm and a commitment to deliver services that make a significant, positive change in children and families lives. Since 2006, Dr. Burleson has been a true champion for the mission of Smiles Change Lives. In 2013, with the assistance of his amazing staff, Dr. Burleson agreed to treat an unprecedented 152 program participants, eliminating a two year waiting list in the greater Kansas City area!
4th Annual Gini Award Sponsors
Andrew and Patricia Brown
