After much deliberation and proceeding with caution, the Wellington Community Foundation held its first in-person fundraiser since 2019 on Friday, Nov. 12 at the Wellington National Golf Club. Last year, due to the pandemic, the foundation took its biggest fundraiser of the year online.
“It is nice to have medical professionals on our board,” Wellington Community Foundation Chair Tom Wenham said. “Thanks to the guidance of Dr. Gordon Johnson and Wellington Regional Medical Center CEO Pam Tahan, we were able to navigate the current conditions and put the necessary protocols in place to have a safe, in-person event.”
The outpouring of community support was obvious at the sold-out event.
“The entire evening was dedicated to Wellington’s Heroes, our military men and women who served to allow us to live with all the freedoms we have today,” WCF Vice Chair Maria Becker said. “It was time to get back together under one roof and share the night together for a great cause.”
The Red, White & Blue Jeans “A Salute To Our Heroes” patriotic-themed event is held each year close to Veterans Day and honors Wellington’s Heroes. Although there was a smaller attendance, by invitation only, the foundation was still able to raise $80,000 this year, all of which will be used to serve residents of Wellington, particularly seniors, children and veterans in need, by supporting and improving their quality of life.
This year’s sponsors included: DIAMOND SPONSOR Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith; RUBY SPONSOR Wellington Regional Medical Center; and SAPPHIRE SPONSORS Regis and Thomas Wenham. This year’s table sponsors included Jim and Paula Sackett, Dr. and Mrs. Gordon Johnson, Palm Beach Urology Associates and Seacoast Bank. Event sponsors included Wellington The Magazine, the Town-Crier newspaper, Wellington National Golf Club, Above & Beyond Party Décor and Kenny Mondo Productions.
The evening kicked off with Mary Lou Bedford setting the stage with the national anthem, followed by a moving “empty chair” ceremony to honor those missing in action and those who never made it home.
The foundation’s board of directors thanked everyone who sponsored, donated and supported their efforts to continue “Building A Stronger Community.” For more information about the foundation, or if you would still like to make a donation, visit www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.
