06/09/2026
We'll start with an apology to Dr. Oates for the photo quality. Apparently, our camera was more focused on celebrating than taking a proper picture.
But even a dark, blurry photo tells a clear story: while most people spend their birthday relaxing, Dr. Oates spent his sharing the mission of 205 DDS and advocating for the children of Rockford.
For more than two decades, Dr. Oates has dedicated his life to removing barriers to dental care for local students. What began as a mobile dental program has grown into a movement that now serves thousands of children every year. And today, that mission continues to grow through our new clinic and the support of our community.
If you'd like to honor Dr. Oates on his birthday, consider becoming part of his legacy through our Brick by Brick Campaign. By sponsoring a personalized brick, you'll help build the future of 205 DDS while creating a lasting tribute that will be seen by generations of students, families, volunteers, and supporters.
Every brick tells a story. Every brick helps a child. Every brick helps us continue building access to care for the children who need it most.
🧱 Sponsor a brick today: 205dds.org/brick-by-brick
