The Giving A Smile Foundation hosted its inaugural gala at the Beverly Hilton on Dec. 11 to support the foundation’s mission of providing high-quality, no-cost dental care to underserved youth across Los Angeles.
Founded by brothers Dr. Rodney Raanan and Dr. Justin Raanan, The Giving A Smile Foundation partners professional dentists with dental students to provide life-changing care to people in need at no cost. The inaugural gala directly supported the creation of a permanent clinic for the foundation.
In their opening speech, the brothers dedicated their work to the inspiration of their parents.
“Can you believe that a dream we had 12 years ago has grown into this beautiful foundation we have today filled with incredible individuals that donate their time, their generosity, to really make a difference in these kids’ lives,” said Dr. Rodney Raanan. “The foundation has already helped over 4,000 people all across L.A. and will continue to grow. This foundation is not only just an organization. It’s really our family story.”
“In addition to building our first standalone year-round dental clinic, The Giving A Smile Foundation is raising funds to launch two fully equipped mobile dental units that will bring free, high-quality care directly into underserved communities,” added Dr. Justin Raanan. “These mobile clinics will allow us to reach children and young adults where they are, removing barriers to treatment and expanding our impact across Los Angeles.”
The event, hosted by actor Kelsey Grammer and featuring a performance by Grammy-winning singer Robin Thicke, brought together the Beverly Hills community and included a live auction to raise funds for the life-changing work of the Raanan brothers.
Beverly Hills Mayor Sharona Nazarian was presented with the Humanitarian Leadership Award. Additionally, talent agent Lorrie Bartlett was given the Guiding Light Award, Boys and Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley CEO JR Dzubak received the Visionary Impact Award, and All Greater Good Foundation President Dr. Katja Van Herle was awarded the Healing Hands Award.
“The Giving A Smile Foundation does something profoundly important. They restore dignity and confidence,” Nazarian said. “They do it quietly, consistently and with a level of professionalism that strengthens the very fabric of our community. In a world where everyone seems to have an opinion, it’s refreshing to be with people who actually take action and make a difference.”
Nazarian also commended the foundation for transforming the lives of children in the city.
“When these kids first walk in, they often hide their smile. You can see how much of their confidence has taken a hit. But after treatment, everything changes,” she said. “Their shoulders lift up; their eyes brighten, and that first real smile feels like sunshine. Fixing teeth is a science. Restoring the confidence is a miracle. They remind us that access, mentorship and compassion aren’t extras. They are essential. And given how many people fear going to the dentist, the fact that so many look forward to walking into your offices might actually qualify as another small miracle.”
The evening represented the best of Beverly Hills and people using their talents to give back to the community, Nazarian said.
“As mayor of Beverly Hills, my theme for this year is unity. And evenings like this illustrate what unity looks like when it’s lived rather than merely spoken. It’s professionals using their skills to serve. It’s organizations creating pathways for people who have been overlooked, and let’s be honest, in Beverly Hills, unity is easy to spot. It’s that magical moment when residents, visitors and even our most opinionated neighbors all agree on one thing in our spectacular city, helping our next generation.”
