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The Story of Foster Kidd

Dr. Foster Kidd, DDS was more than a dentist — he was a mentor, leader, historian, and community builder whose life and legacy continue to shape the mission of the Foster Kidd Foundation.

Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana on February 2, 1924, Foster Kidd grew up with resilience and determination. After serving honorably in the United States Army during World War II, where he earned a Bronze Star, he pursued higher education with purpose — earning his bachelor’s degree at Fisk University and his dental degree from Meharry Medical College.

In 1953, Dr. Kidd and his wife Pearl made Dallas their home, where he opened a dental practice and became a civic leader deeply committed to education, mentorship, and community service. A scholar and historian, Dr. Kidd authored Profile of the Negro in American Dentistry, documenting the history of Black dentists in America — a testament to his commitment to preserving and honoring Black achievement.

Beyond the clinic, Dr. Kidd’s passion for golf became a powerful force for change. After learning the game in the late 1950s, he embraced it wholeheartedly, eventually helping to found the Pro-Duffers Golf Club. Through golf, he saw an opportunity to teach young people discipline, self-esteem, sportsmanship, and leadership — lessons that transcend the fairway.

In the early 1980s, Dr. Kidd established the North Texas Junior Golf and Education Foundation, the forerunner of today’s Foster Kidd Foundation. His vision was simple yet profound: to mentor inner-city youth through golf and create pathways to education and opportunity.

Although Dr. Kidd passed away in 2001 while doing what he loved — playing golf — his legacy lives on. The Foster Kidd Foundation carries forward his mission, offering mentorship, community programs, and scholarships that empower students to reach their full potential.

Dr. Foster Kidd’s life was defined by service, scholarship, and the belief that every young person deserves a chance to succeed. Today, that belief continues to inspire every swing, every student, and every supporter of the foundation.