Having distributed $19.4 million to 318 Palm Beach County non-profit organizations over the past 14 years, it is safe to say that the Great Charity Challenge sponsored by Fidelity Investments® (GCC) has left a significant mark on the surrounding community. The team at Wellington International is proud to have played a crucial role in creating the long lasting and ever-growing impact the GCC has had in the Palm Beach County Community.
As we gear up for an exciting 15th edition, the GCC is calling out to individuals, families, foundations, and businesses to join this community movement and create your own legacy by joining the event.
The biggest night of show jumping during the Winter Equestrian Festival blends equestrian sport and philanthropy, bringing hope to more than 40 Palm Beach County charities every year. With a goal of distributing $2 million this year, prize money for participating charities will range from $100,000 to $1,000, ensuring that every charity is able to make a sizeable impact in their line of work.
The 2023 edition inspired many to “Be The Change” by raising $1.7 million dollars that directly impacted some of the most vulnerable populations in Pam Beach County. The event’s relationship with the community has evolved over the past 14 years, bringing even more interest, support, and dedication towards its mission. In 2024, with a new set of incredible charities awaiting their selection, we look forward to making more dreams come true.
“Year after year, the event continues to thrive, thanks to our many donors and sponsors who join forces, creating a genuine impact for local non-profits and the clients they serve” said Anne Caroline Valtin, Executive Director of the GCC. “Looking back on the last 14 years and the tie this event has created between Palm Beach County and the equestrian community, we can’t help but be proud of what we’ve done, and ecstatic for what’s to come”.
To ensure transparency throughout the entire process, all applications are subject to a rigorous vetting process. Once approved by a review committee, organizations are randomly selected out of a lottery drum by sponsors, and local officials who go out of their way every year to support the GCC and help the event gain momentum in the community.
“Building a relationship with new organizations each year expands our reach, and our knowledge of the needs in our community. During the fund reporting process, all of our dreamed impact becomes reality and motivates us for the year to come!”- Kelly Arani, Event and Marketing Director of the GCC.
New last year, a Charity Drawing Party, sponsored by Fidelity Investments®, will be held in December of 2023 to select the thirty charities to be represented on Saturday, February 3, 2024.
To view a full list of selected non-profits to date, we invite you to visit: www.GreatCharityChallenge.com.
In addition to fund disbursements, the GCC’s strategy involves capacity building, enabling invaluable partnerships, as well as concentrating on amplifying the event’s impact. By guaranteeing that the event will not only support those who provide immediate needs in the community, but also those who work towards long-term, sustainable change, the upcoming 2024 edition hopes to inspire all who attend to take action and become involved in their communities.
Are you impact-driven and inspired to #BeTheChange in your community?
The GCC redistributes 100% of donations received back into the community thanks to the Wellington International organization generously covering all costs associated with this community effort. As a result, joining us as a donor or sponsor means that your donation will create the most influential impact locally.
Donations and sponsorships ranging from $50 to $200,000 help the GCC reach and exceed its goal of raising over $1 million each and every year. For our 15th edition, the team is pushing to hit the $2 million mark.
Customized sponsorship opportunities start at $500 while donations of all levels are welcomed; please visit www.greatcharitychallenge.com for additional information on how to become part of this movement and community effort.
The GCC competition, to be held during the 2024 Winter Equestrian Festival at Wellington International, will return on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Wellington International, home of the Winter Equestrian Festival, and once again, will feature the Pet Parade and Costume Contest presented by the Postage Stamp Farm Foundation, and the school art projects from 12 local public schools.
Organizations benefiting from the GCC serve and support Palm Beach County’s community growth and well-being. A full list of recipients and benefiting charities to date, including their most recent fund use reports, is on the GCC website. Please contact Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin at acv@greatcharitychallenge.com or 727-678-8677 for further information or questions.
For additional event information, please visit www.greatcharitychallenge.com. Follow the GCC on social media at @greatcharitychallenge on Facebook and @great_charity_challenge on Instagram.
