Get Involved

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Ways to Connect & Engage

Interested in getting more involved in your profession and volunteering your time and talents to the Massachusetts Dental Society (MDS)? We encourage you to explore the available opportunities, including participation on committees, in district activities, community service, serving as a guest board member, and more.

Members have two unique opportunities available to connect and engage with the MDS and members:

Volunteer for Committees

people around a table

Serving on a committee is a valuable way to make new connections, strengthen your leadership skills, and maximize the benefits of your membership. MDS committee members are selected annually; however, spots periodically become available throughout the year. Members are encouraged to apply for the following committees when positions are available: 

Volunteer for Your District

Group of people at an event

Getting involved with your local district dental society provides an opportunity to lead within the Society and connect with peers as an active member of organized dentistry. Visit your district’s web page to explore the available volunteer options.

Find My District
MDS Cares Community Service

The MDS coordinates monthly volunteer events for members seeking to give back to their community. Opportunities range from working at a food bank to a spring clean up on Mass Audubon properties.

Learn More
Volunteer at Yankee

Yankee Dental Congress volunteers are an integral part of the conference's success. There are a plethora of opportunities to volunteer at the annual conference. Learn more when you visit the Yankee website.

Learn More

Become a Guest Board Member

Board room table

Applicants accepted to the MDS Guest Board Program become active members on the MDS Board of Trustees by attending Board events and participating in discussions.

Guest Board Member Information

The Massachusetts Dental Society (MDS) Guest Board Member Program offers an opportunity for dentists to participate in MDS Board of Trustees discussions and actions. Each year, the Guest Board Program accepts four dentists for a one-year term. Guest board members are considered non-voting members of the Board, but are encouraged to offer opinions on all discussion topics and participate in all Board functions.

The application process for the 2026-2027 Guest Board Member Program will open in the spring of 2026.

Guest Board Members must commit to the following requirements:

  • Attend the MDS House of Delegates meeting, all Board of Trustees meetings, the Board retreat, and a Board orientation
  • Participate in Board discussions and volunteer or accept Board assignments, if requested by the president or the Board

Note: Any member-dentist of the MDS who is interested in learning more about governance and gaining leadership experience through this one-year program may apply. All applications are reviewed and the final selection of guest board members is made by a task force from the Board of Trustees and the Membership Committee. No experience is necessary. Contact Colleen Chase, director, governance and operations, if you have any questions.