The Wellington Community Foundation’s ninth annual Red, White & Blue Jeans: “A Salute To Our Heroes” event, held Friday, Nov. 8 at the Wellington National Golf Club, proved to be a record-breaking success. The sold-out event drew attendees from across the community who came together in support of the foundation’s initiatives benefiting local seniors, children and veterans.
The atmosphere at the club was vibrant and patriotic, with more than 200 guests, most wearing their finest red, white and blue attire. The event included live entertainment by a 16-piece “big band” led by Moe Goldstein, as well as heartfelt speeches and inspiring stories that highlighted the profound impact of community support on those most in need.
WCF Chair Barry Manning opened the evening by welcoming everyone in attendance. The traditional POW/MIA empty chair ceremony was conducted by William Bartels with support from American Legion Post 390 of Wellington. Mary Lou Beford did an outstanding rendition of the national anthem, and Post 390 Commander Laz Sed led the Pledge of Allegiance.
“This night is more than just a fundraising event,” Manning said. “It’s a celebration of community resilience, compassion and the incredible things we can accomplish together. The level of support we received for tonight has been overwhelming.”
Attendees were moved by narratives of children starting the school year equipped with essential supplies, seniors feeling remembered and cherished on special occasions, and veterans gaining accessibility upgrades in their homes to enhance their independence. The presentation of the foundation’s programs was given by event MCs Jim Sackett and Roxanne Stein, both foundation board members.
Among those recognized were veterans, seniors and children who have directly benefited from the foundation’s support. Special guest of honor, 100-year-old World War II U.S. Army veteran Carmin Yannotta, was met with a standing ovation, highlighting the night with a group photo of all veterans in attendance.
The foundation introduced several community partners, including Susan Guinan of the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center; Jaene Miranda of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County; Kathy Foster and Selena Samios of Our Community Cares; PSBO Investigator Scott Poritz of A Day for Autism; Jenifer Brito and Ian Williams of Wellington Community Services; Ana Thomas and Luis Torres of Palm Beach State College; J.P. Varvarigos of Wellington Florist; John Sitomer of the Council of Dads; and Wellington Rotary Club President Walter Imperatore. All of these community partners work closely with the foundation to help identify the individuals in need and coordinate programs that impact the lives of seniors, children and veterans with foundation support.
The event successfully raised funds to support essential programs that address critical, often hidden needs within the Wellington community. It was all done thanks to the generosity of attendees, donors and sponsors, including Wellington Regional Medical Center and Diamante Farms Dressage, along with dozens of table sponsors, including Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith; Jim and Paula Sackett; Frank and Herta Suess; Terri Kane; Wellington Florist; Seacoast Bank; Katie Edwards-Walpole; Michael and Phyllis Gauger; Dr. and Mrs. Gordon Johnson; Maggie Zeller; the Boynton Financial Group; and Wellington The Magazine/The Town-Crier.
The night would not have been complete without special recognition of Wellington’s first lady, Regis Wenham, who was in attendance honoring the memory of her late husband, former Wellington Mayor Thomas M. Wenham, the founder and inaugural chair of the foundation. “The legacy of what Mr. Wenham built lives on through our work and continued dedication,” Manning said. “We owe an enduring debt of gratitude to Mr. Wenham’s vision of what this foundation can do for neighbors in need.”
With every ticket sold and every table sponsored, the night demonstrated the power of a community that believes in giving back. The foundation’s board members expressed their gratitude to all who participated, underscoring their ongoing commitment to “Building a Stronger Community” through initiatives that change lives and bring hope to those who need it most.
Jim Sackett wrapped up the program presentation with a wonderful reminder that, “These aren’t just programs, they are lifelines. They represent our commitment to addressing the hidden needs in our community, a place where affluence and need can co-exist in surprising ways, but we can’t do it alone.”
Roxanne Stein went on to add, “We thank you for your belief in the power of coming together to make a positive impact.”
As the evening drew to a close, attendees departed with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that their contributions will make a lasting impact all across Wellington. For those who couldn’t attend, the foundation continues to welcome donations online to help sustain these vital programs.
For more information about the foundation, or to donate, visit www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.
