In the immediate wake of Hurricane Helene, when the Rebuild Hot Springs Area (RHSA) was just a newly formed 501(c)(3) with a massive task ahead, the Dental Advocacy Group (DAG) was one of the very first to step up. They didn’t just send a message of support; they arrived with a $25,000 donation that provided the vital spark our recovery efforts needed.
Now, a year later, they’ve returned with that same spirit of generosity, bringing their total support to $50,000 and proving that they are in this for the long haul. As DAG Managing Director Cornelia Outten joked during the gathering, “We’ve adopted a town,” and we couldn’t be more honored to be the community they chose.
Left to Right: Joseph, Miller, Mayor Abby, Cornelia, Laurie, and RHSA President TJ.
Who is the Dental Advocacy Group?
Based out of Greenville, South Carolina, the Dental Advocacy Group is a consulting firm with a national reach, helping private dental practices in 42 states stay independent and profitable. Founded by retired dentist Dr. Joseph F. Outten and his daughter, Cornelia Outten, the company was built on a foundation of service and “advocacy”—negotiating better outcomes for community doctors so they can focus on what matters most: patient care.
That philosophy of looking out for the “little guy” is exactly what brought them to Hot Springs.
From Immediate Relief to Long-Term Recovery
This incredible $50,000 total contribution has been instrumental in two distinct phases of our journey as a town.
When DAG first showed up with $25,000 in 2024, those funds were used for immediate, boots-on-the-ground relief. We were able to put money directly into the pockets of individuals who were left without work or income in the weeks following the storm, providing a lifeline when it was needed most. Those early days were chaotic and no one could imagine, at that time, what the future may hold. With their assistance, we were able to provide meaningful relief to nearly 200 residents.
This new round of funding will be directed toward the “long game”—helping our residents who still have significant unmet needs as they navigate the slow, difficult process of rebuilding their lives and homes.
A Neighborly Connection
The bridge between our town and DAG’s headquarters was built by Laurie, a DAG employee and a resident of nearby Greeneville, TN. As a long-time friend of Hot Springs, Laurie saw the devastation firsthand and knew that our small, volunteer-driven community was the perfect place for DAG to make an impact.
Last Christmas, instead of participating in their usual internal gift exchange, the team at DAG decided to channel their energy into something bigger. Laurie put Hot Springs on their radar, and the company didn’t hesitate. As Cornelia remembered:
“We decided… instead of doing a little silly exchange among ourselves, to spend our effort to raise money for areas that had a need. And Laurie convinced us Hot Springs was the place.”
The Power of Not Forgetting
The most moving part of this partnership is DAG’s commitment to the “long game.” While the initial weeks after a disaster often bring an outpouring of aid, it is the second year—when the cameras have gone and the initial funds are spent—that truly defines a community’s future.
As DAG team member Miller Outten stated:
“We’re glad to be able to continue helping you all through the recovery effort. The first year is a big push and places get left behind. We’re happy to continue with helping out.”
To Dental Advocacy Group: Thank you for your incredible generosity and for truly “adopting” our little town. You aren’t just donors; you are a vital part of the story of how Hot Springs is rising again. We appreciate you not forgetting about us. We will never forget about your help!