Future Ties brings free dental screenings to Chicago families

By AI, Created 10:10 AM UTC, May 20, 2026, /AGP/ – Future Ties, NFP hosted a community dental screening and nutrition workshop on Chicago’s South Side, giving children and families access to free dental care, nutrition education and family activities. The event underscores how local partnerships are being used to make prevention-focused health resources more approachable.

Why it matters: - Chicago families on the South Side received free dental screenings and nutrition education in a community setting designed to make preventive care easier to access. - The event focused on children ages 3–12, a group where early screening and healthy habits can shape longer-term outcomes. - The workshop brought together health, education and family engagement in one place, reducing barriers that can keep families from using preventive services.

What happened: - Future Ties, NFP hosted a Community Dental Screening and Nutrition Workshop at 6330 S. King Drive in Chicago. - Jennifer Maddox, founder of Future Ties, helped bring the event to Chicago families. - Sharon Bell, COO of Future Ties, headed up the event. - The workshop connected families with children ages 3–12 and other community members seeking health resources. - Free dental screenings were offered through the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures Mobile Dental Van.

The details: - The event included nutrition education, family-friendly activities, a DJ and bouncy houses. - The workshop was presented in partnership with the Student National Dental Association, Future Ties, NFP, Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures and the National Dental Association – Health Now initiative. - Jennifer Maddox said the event showed what happens when organizations come together around prevention, access and families. - Maddox said community-based events can make health resources feel approachable, welcoming and connected to everyday life. - Future Ties said the organization continues to strengthen its role as a community connector through events that help families access resources supporting children’s health, education and long-term wellness.

Between the lines: - The event paired a clinical service, dental screening, with an environment built to keep families engaged, which can improve turnout and comfort. - The partnership mix suggests a prevention-first approach that combines nonprofit outreach with national dental and corporate resources. - The focus on a neighborhood-specific location on Chicago’s South Side points to a strategy of meeting families where they live rather than expecting them to navigate health systems alone.

What’s next: - Future Ties said questions and partnership inquiries may be directed to Sharon Bell at (773) 633-2950 or sbell@futureties.org. - The organization is likely to continue using community-based events to connect families with prevention, education and wellness resources. - More information is available on the organization’s social profiles: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and X.

The bottom line: - Future Ties used a South Side workshop to turn preventive dental care into a family-friendly community event, with partners helping expand access for Chicago children and parents.