Big Start, Bigger Impact: TeamSmile’s Q1 2026 Growth Story
TeamSmile’s 2026 momentum is already on full display. In Q1, we expanded our staff, added a second truck and a full second set of equipment, and positioned ourselves to run two programs simultaneously—opening the door to opportunities and impact we simply did not have before. This exciting growth would not have been possible without the tremendous support of Colgate, whose partnership has helped fuel this next chapter, as well as the many generous donors who contributed supplies and equipment to make it a reality. We are also thrilled to debut our rebrand at the ShopRite LPGA program on May 29, marking not only our growth but also a new level of partnership with Colgate.
So far in 2026, TeamSmile has proudly hosted programs with the Charlotte Knights, Kansas City Royals (IDD), UMass Boston, Pittsburgh Pirates, Buffalo Bills (IDD), Colorado Rockies, Arizona Cardinals (IDD), and Minnesota Twins, bringing smiles and essential dental care to children and families across the country. Through these incredible partnerships, we have already served 1,539 children, 50 of whom were IDD, and provided $499,368 in dental treatment, with $8,032 of which is IDD services, continuing our mission to deliver life-changing care, education, and hope to communities nationwide.
Celebrating Colgate
A National Partner in 20 Years of Smiles
As TeamSmile celebrates 20 Years of Smiles in 2026, we are proud to recognize Colgate as one of our most valued and enduring National Partners. Colgate has been with TeamSmile since our very first program, standing beside us from the beginning and helping shape the growth and reach of our mission over the last two decades.
From day one, Colgate has believed in the power of bringing oral health care directly to children in need. Their longstanding partnership has helped TeamSmile expand our impact across the country, allowing us to serve more communities and create more healthy smiles. Colgate is spurring our growth by providing support for our additional staff, office/warehouse, equipment, and additional trailer , which plays a major role in helping TeamSmile reach even more children and families nationwide.
At every TeamSmile programs across the country, Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures helps bring our events to life by providing oral health, fitness, and dietary education to children and families. Their presence adds an important layer to the TeamSmile experience, ensuring that kids not only receive much-needed dental care, but also leave with the knowledge and tools to build healthier habits for life.
The connection between Colgate and TeamSmile is a natural one. TeamSmile’s mission is to provide children in need with life-changing dental care and education through the power of sports. Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures shares that same commitment to improving children’s oral health and overall well-being through education, prevention, and access. Together, our organizations work to create healthier futures by making care approachable, engaging, and impactful for every child we serve.
As we reflect on 20 years of growth, partnership, and smiles, we are deeply grateful for Colgate’s unwavering support. Their commitment has helped TeamSmile grow from a single program into a national movement, and their partnership continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of children across the country.
Thank you, Colgate, for being an essential part of the TeamSmile story—and for helping us create smiles that last a lifetime.
Sponsor Spotlight: Elevance Health
Elevance Health’s commitment to advancing health beyond healthcare makes them a powerful national partner for TeamSmile. By supporting people across every stage of life with health plans and clinical, behavioral, pharmacy, and complex-care solutions, Elevance Health brings a whole-health perspective that aligns naturally with TeamSmile’s mission to connect underserved children with free dental care, oral health education, and meaningful community support. Their belief in strengthening communities and improving health outcomes helps TeamSmile do more than treat teeth in a single moment. It helps create healthier futures for children and families.
We are deeply grateful for Elevance Health’s partnership and the impact it helps make possible through TeamSmile. Their focus on improving health outcomes, lowering costs, simplifying experiences, and building stronger communities reflects the kind of support that turns TeamSmile events into truly life-changing experiences. Because of partners like Elevance Health, children receive not only essential dental care, but also encouragement, confidence, and connection in an environment that makes healthcare feel positive and accessible. Their support helps TeamSmile continue delivering smiles, hope, and healthier tomorrows to kids who need it most.
As TeamSmile continues to grow, so does our ability to reach more children needing life-changing dental care. Every donation—big or small—helps provide essential treatments, preventive care, and connections to a dental home for underserved children nationwide.
With your generosity, we can expand our programs, serve more communities, and give thousands of children the healthy smiles they deserve.
Together, we are changing lives—one child, one smile at a time!
TeamSmile Staff Left to Right: Erica Hill, Dental Home Director - Kaitlin O’Malley, Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator - Brittany Martin, Equipment & Warehouse Manager - Angela Brewer, Communications & Development Director - Roseanne Becker, Statistics & Information Coordinator - John McCarthy, Executive Director - Kami Thomas, Senior Director of Programs - Greg Carroll, TeamSmile Ambassador - Bobby Casey, Program and Outreach Director - Mike, TeamSmile Truck Driver - Kathy Hadel-Racy, Outreach Coordinator - Gabby Herzog, Clinical Assistant - Megan Shepard, Program and Clinical Director - Michelle Gentry, Clinical Assistant - Brianna Blocker, Office Manager
