When Dr. Melissa Connell and her husband, Bob Burger, began planning their new practice, High Tide Pediatric Dentistry, they already knew exactly who they wanted to work with. Their son, James, shares a classroom at HHCA with Mary Haynes, whose parents, Alex and Alison Haynes, own Genesis Construction.

What started as a school connection quickly revealed something deeper: shared values, trust, and a common commitment to excellence.

"We knew that we shared the same principles and values both professionally and personally,” Alex said. “That made it an easy decision to work together for the same goal."

As the partnership took shape, it became clear that this project was about more than building a pediatric dental practice; it was about strengthening community. The families’ relationship, formed through HHCA, grew into a professional collaboration rooted in mutual respect and friendship.

HHCA brought us together and formed a new relationship and friendship. We felt that we should give back, as we wouldn’t have been brought together if it wasn’t for HHCA.

Alex Haynes, Genesis Construction

That desire to give back led Genesis Construction to make a $5,000 gift to HHCA’s Annual Fund through the Heritage Classic Foundation partnership, marking the first donation designated through this program for 2026. By giving through the Heritage partnership, their generosity went even further by securing an additional 20% match for the school.

For the Haynes family, intentionally supporting fellow HHCA families through business, community, and philanthropy is simply part of who they are. “We believe that a successful business and family is based on strong relationships,” Alex said. “When you have common values and interests, it makes the relationship that much stronger. Working together is much more enjoyable for a common cause.”

Giving back to HHCA, the school where their children are growing and learning, makes that cause deeply personal. “We want to set the school up for success and growth,” Alex shared. “Contributing back to the school is also investing in our kids and their future.”

Melissa echoed that sentiment, reflecting on the experience from the other side of the partnership.

We intentionally partner with HHCA families for our projects. The mutual benefit that comes from supporting HHCA families is huge and meaningful and giving back to the school is truly a full-circle experience.

Melissa Connell, High Tide Pediatric Dentistry 

This story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when HHCA families come together to build businesses, strengthen relationships, and invest in the mission of the school they love.

Inspired by this story?
You can be part of the impact. Gifts made through the Heritage Classic Foundation and designated to HHCA receive a 20% match, helping your generosity go even further for our students and school.

 Learn more and give at hhca.org/heritage