The Giving A Smile Foundation Hosts Inaugural Gala Ensuring that Smiles Are a Right Not a Luxury

The Giving A Smile Foundation marked a major milestone with its Inaugural Gala at the Beverly Hilton—an evening that fused purpose with celebration while laying the groundwork for lasting change in children’s oral health across Los Angeles.

Presented by Rifkin Raanan Dentistry (Dr. Rodney Raanan, Dr. Justin Raanan, Dr. Sepehr Nassiripour, Dr. Rosie Nassiripour, Dr. Robert Rifkin, and Dr. Steve Rifkin), the event brought together entertainers, philanthropists, healthcare leaders, and community advocates united by a shared belief — access to dental care should never depend on a family’s financial circumstances. Hosted by Kelsey Grammer, the night featured a headlining performance by five-time Grammy-nominated artist Robin Thicke, with an opening set by The Voice alum Jacquie Lee. Additional performances by Griffith Frank and Lindsay Gitter, along with music by DJ Pookie, set an energetic tone—while the evening’s true focus remained firmly on impact.

At the heart of the gala was the Foundation’s mission to create and sustain a permanent, no-cost dental clinic that will serve underserved children and young adults throughout Los Angeles. Proceeds from the evening will fund advanced dental treatments, preventive education, and critical oral-health resources—ensuring that no young person is ever turned away due to financial hardship.

While the evening sparkled with celebrity guests and standout performances, its significance lies in what comes next. The Giving A Smile Foundation’s permanent clinic represents a bold step toward equitable healthcare—offering comprehensive, year-round dental services that address both immediate needs and long-term well-being. For recipients, the impact is deeply personal. Jordan Edwards, whose life was changed through the Foundation’s work, shared a powerful testament to what access to care can mean. “If it weren’t for Justin [Ranaan, DDS MMSc] and his team changing my life that day and his amazing hygienist, then I would not be the man I am today. I’m way more confident, I feel stronger, and I feel like a lot more doors and opportunities are going to open for me because they changed my smile.” Stories like Edwards’ underscore the Foundation’s belief that oral health is not cosmetic—it’s essential to confidence, opportunity, and overall quality of life. In addition to the stand-alone clinic, the Foundation is raising funds to launch two fully equipped mobile dental units. These mobile clinics will bring free, high-quality care directly into underserved communities, removing barriers such as transportation, cost, and time away from school or work.

The gala also celebrated leaders whose work reflects the Foundation’s mission. Beverly Hills Mayor Sharona Nazarian received the Humanitarian Leadership Award, while Lorrie Bartlett was honored with the Guiding Light Award, JR Dzubak received the Visionary Impact Award, and Dr. Katja Van Herle was presented with the Healing Hands Award. Honoree presenters and attendees included Harry Goodwins (The Gentlemen), James Tupper (Big Little Lies), Colin Egglesfield (The Client List), and Lesley-Ann Brandt (Lucifer), joined by philanthropists, creatives, and advocates committed to expanding access to care.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Giving A Smile Foundation is guided by compassion, equity, and community partnership. Through comprehensive dental care, preventive education, and year-round resources, the organization is redefining what equitable healthcare looks like in Los Angeles.By investing in permanent solutions like a no-cost clinic and mobile dental units, the Giving A Smile Foundation is ensuring healthier futures and brighter smiles for thousands of young people. Because a smile isn’t a luxury. It’s a right.