Celebrating 25 years

Building healthier Arizona communities through oral healthcare

About Brighter Way Institute

Outstanding care. A stronger community.

Brighter Way has a transformational mission to provide comprehensive oral healthcare for vulnerable adults, children, veterans, those experiencing homelessness, and individuals with special needs.

Our collaborative model

Oral health opens a pathway out of poverty.

“Transforming More Than Smiles” is a pathway out of poverty strengthened by collaborative community efforts. We provide services through two unique dental centers and provide remote access through Tooth Bus — a partnership with UnitedHealthcare.

Read the Brighter Way story

Governing Board

Our Patients Thank You.

With gratitude to the Brighter Way Governing Board for their generous dedication of time, expertise, resources, and governance. Select any board member to read their full biography.

Portrait of Charlie Clark

Board biography

Charlie Clark, D.M.D.

Board Chair

Pediatric Dentist, Pediatric Dental Specialists

Dr. Clark joined the Brighter Way Board in 2016. He has also served in board leadership positions for several local Arizona community nonprofits, with a passion for improving access to and delivery of oral health services for those in need.

In 2015, Dr. Clark was recognized by the American Dental Association with the Golden Apple Award for New Dentist Leadership. He received his certificate in Pediatric Dentistry from the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and completed his dental education at the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health. He continues his private practice as a Pediatric Dental Specialist in the East Valley.

The people behind the mission

Leadership Team

01

Kris Volcheck, DDS, MBA

Founding CEO / President

02

Dustin M. Marshall

Chief Administrative Officer

Vice President of Adult Oral Health Services

03

Laurie Allen

Chief Program Officer

Vice President of Pediatric Oral Health Services

04

DR Thomas, CPA

Finance Lead

05

Samantha Maracle, CFRE

Development and Marketing Lead

Impact & accountability

The information supporters need, in one place.

We remain grateful to our Brighter Way friends and partners. We’re proud to share our Impact Reports and Financial Audits.

Thank you for making an impact through your kind and generous support.

Be part of the next chapter

Help transform health, confidence, and possibility.

Make a donation