The Brooke USA Foundation has returned to Wellington during the winter equestrian season with three familiar and exciting events taking place in February and March.
Now in its seventh year, the Paint Wellington Orange signature event series offers something for everyone, while raising funds for a variety of projects supporting working horses, donkeys and mules, and the people they serve across the globe.
“Wellington is such a special place for us, as we kicked-off all new nationally recognized fundraisers here,” said Emily Dulin, CEO of Brooke USA. “Our events are designed to bring something new to our loyal supporters, while building new groups of friends with events that include a polo competition, pool party, dressage with a live symphony and more, all while expanding our reach to help more people and animals in need.”
The first event in the line-up is Ponies & Pearls: A Women’s Empowerment Event, presented by the Tucker Foundation and Mrs. Gillian Johnston, and celebrating the accomplishments of women and the legacy of Dorothy Brooke, founder of the Brooke family of charities.
Making its second appearance in Wellington on Sunday, Feb. 18 in the Pavilion at the National Polo Center, the Sunday Brunch Polo VIP event is held during the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship Final. Individual tickets start at $275 with table sponsorships available with funds raised dedicated to programs targeting women as the main equine caregivers across global projects.
Reminiscent of polo elegance, Brooke USA is asking guests to wear polo chic and ladies are encouraged to wear a hat, pop of orange and boast their pearls, while enjoying breathtaking views and rigorous competition. A hat contest and an exclusive silent auction and travel auction through charity partner AmFund will serve as fun activities for everyone to look forward to, including men.
Next in the series is the energetic affair Sunset Watering Hole, presented by the Garcia Companies, on Monday, Feb. 19 (President’s Day), designed for young professionals and riders, while offering the ideal venue and atmosphere for relaxation. Held at the National Polo Center, crowds of riders and their friends will enjoy a fun-filled evening of pool and poolside activities, music and entertainment with DJ Adam Lipson, cirque entertainment and photo opportunities brought by the generosity of Eye Candy, food and libations including signature drinks through Tito’s Vodka and Star Liquors, sponsored by the Bonavito Family, a silent auction and travel auction, and specialty sponsor items, including sunglasses by Enviro Equine & Pet, a trunk show by Vanner House, and custom bracelets and charms by Kaela Genovese of La Enovese Designs.
Sunset Watering Hole is brought to Wellington thanks to the Brooke USA Young Professionals Committee, co-chaired by Morgan Measey and Robert Reyers. This event will help thousands of people and equines in Ethiopia. Funds raised are committed to stocking veterinary medicines and other supplies to rural health posts for equines, providing access to convenient and prompt care.
Crowning the trifecta of Brooke USA’s Paint Wellington Orange events is the spectacular showcase Divertimentos & Dressage, a dressage musical freestyle to a live orchestra by the Palm Beach Symphony.
Divertimentos & Dressage, presented by Lugano Diamonds, will be held Thursday, March 21 at the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center. Spectators will be overwhelmed by the beauty of this event when horses, orchestra and guests literally share the arena. To date, Brooke USA ambassadors JJ Tate and Rebecca Hart, along with Todd Flettrich and Allison Kavey, are confirmed to ride, with a special pas de trois to be performed by Kerensa, Klendy and Kayden Muller.
Touted as the event of the season last year. Selma Garber returns as event chair and is joined by Jennifer Burger and Candace Platz as event co-chairs.
“These events have taken a life of their own, thanks to the brilliant work from our planning and host committees,” said Kendall Bierer, Brooke USA’s donor relations officer. “It is my unique pleasure to liaise with them as we continue to reimagine our initiatives in my hometown of Wellington.”
To learn about the events, or to purchase tickets, tables or a sponsorship, visit www.brookeusa.org/brooke-usa-events.
