Abby Jones
On Friday, July 11th, First Horizon Park echoed with laughter and energy, not from a baseball game, but from something even more powerful: Kids Dental Day & Shoe Distribution. What began as a unique collaboration has blossomed into a joyful tradition that brings critical dental care, new shoes, and brighter smiles to hundreds of Nashville children, just in time for a new school year.
This incredible event is made possible by a coalition of community champions, including cityCURRENT, Delta Dental of Tennessee, the Nashville Sounds, Samaritan’s Feet, Interfaith Dental, Meharry Medical College, Neighborhood Health, and others. Together, these partners have created more than just a day of service, they’ve created a movement of hope, dignity, and health for families across Middle Tennessee.
The Heart Behind Kids Dental Day
Four years ago, Delta Dental of Tennessee launched Kids Dental Day, while cityCURRENT had already been leading shoe distributions for over a decade. In a powerful display of collaboration, the two efforts merged two years ago into a single, purpose-driven event that leverages community partnerships to maximize impact. As Kelly Roy Meyers, President of CityCURRENT Nashville, shared, “It was a scary idea at first...but it’s been such a blessing.” Since then, the event has grown, with 2025 marking its second year as a combined effort, one that continues to flourish thanks to the dedication of volunteers and partners.
More Than Just a Day at the Ballpark
While hundreds of children received dental screenings, cleanings, and brand-new socks and shoes, the real impact goes far deeper. 
“When you see the kids running faster or jumping higher because of the new shoes they just received, or smiling brighter, showing off their teeth that just got cleaned, that's when you understand what this day is all about,” Kelly explained.
Last year, 60% of participating children required follow-up dental care. For many, this was their first interaction with a dentist. Thanks to partners like Neighborhood Health, any necessary follow-up care will be provided at no cost to families, helping ensure that every child gets the attention they need, long after the ballpark gates close.
And it’s not just about health. Many children arrive wearing shoes that are hand-me-downs, often two sizes too small. For them, receiving a brand-new pair of shoes is more than just a practical gift. It’s a moment of confidence and joy.
“My biggest challenge is usually finding which pair of shoes I own that coordinates best with my outfit that day,” Kelly shared. “And it really humbles you to understand that for some kids, it’s simply about having one good pair of shoes. And that’s right here in our city of Nashville.”
Building a Culture of Service: Where to Start
For companies hoping to build a stronger culture of service, Kelly has simple but powerful advice:
“It has to start with the leaders. Your team will watch you… Start small, from the top down, everyone needs to be empowered to get involved. And if you do, you won’t regret it.”
And the data agrees:
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89% of working Americans believe companies that sponsor volunteer activities offer a better work environment
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70% say volunteering boosts morale more than happy hours or team-building events
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80% of employees in volunteer programs feel closer to their coworkers
(Source: Deloitte Volunteerism Survey, Matchable)
Events like Kids Dental Day don’t just change lives in the community; they transform the culture inside the organizations that participate. Employees return to work with renewed purpose, closer bonds, and stories they’ll carry for a lifetime.
Powering the Good, Together
cityCURRENT’s mission is simple yet powerful: to power the good. Through strategic partnerships and community-focused events, they help businesses grow in the right direction, not just in profit, but in purpose.
Dominion Payroll is proud to support Kids Dental Day & Shoe Distribution. Events like this are a reminder that every business has the power to give back, whether it’s by donating a few hours of time, contributing resources, or simply showing up with a heart ready to serve.
Interested in learning more? Click here to learn more about cityCURRENT's mission and upcoming events