Spreading Smiles This Season: Dr. Strickland Participates in Project Christmas Smile 2025
Owen discussing treatment information with a patient sitting in the dental chair during the community event.
This past Saturday, Dr. Strickland and Owen were honored to participate in the annual Project Christmas Smile event—a community tradition dedicated to providing free dental care to individuals and families in need during the holiday season. Hosted across multiple dental offices in the Sarasota–Bradenton area, the event brings together generous volunteers, dental professionals, and local organizations who share one mission: to deliver comfort, relief, and confidence to those who need it most.
Founded on the belief that everyone deserves to smile—especially during the holidays—Project Christmas Smile has grown into one of the region’s most impactful annual outreach efforts. By donating their time, skills, and compassion, participating dentists help ensure that community members experiencing financial hardship receive essential care that might otherwise be out of reach.
A Morning Dedicated to Giving Back
During this year’s event, Dr. Strickland and Owen welcomed patients into the office for complimentary dental treatments ranging from cleanings and exams to urgent care services. The atmosphere was warm and festive, with patients arriving in holiday sweaters, volunteers coordinating care, and everyone embracing the spirit of the season.
Dr. Strickland and Owen worked seamlessly as a team—evaluating patient needs, providing treatment, and ensuring each person felt comfortable and cared for. Because many individuals rely on Project Christmas Smile as their one opportunity each year to receive dental services, every patient interaction carried deep meaning.
More Than Dentistry—It’s Community
One of the best parts of the day was the genuine connection shared among patients, volunteers, and providers. Smiles, gratitude, and even a few joyful tears filled the office. As Dr. Strickland shared with the team afterward, events like this remind us why community involvement matters: when people feel supported, valued, and seen, it strengthens the entire community.
Dr. Strickland, Owen, and a patient smiling together after receiving care during Project Christmas Smile 2025.
Project Christmas Smile is a reminder that dentistry isn’t just about teeth—it’s about people, dignity, and compassionate care.
Carrying the Spirit Forward
Strickland Family Dentistry is proud to support initiatives that make a positive difference in the lives of others. Participating in Project Christmas Smile each year aligns with our ongoing commitment to serve Sarasota and surrounding communities with kindness, advocate for accessible dental care, and uplift our neighbors, one smile at a time.
We’re grateful for everyone who helped make this year’s event possible and look forward to continuing this tradition of giving for many years to come.