By Shannon Anastasio
Patriotism, philanthropy and hometown pride will take center stage Friday, Nov. 13, when the Wellington Community Foundation presents its 11th annual Red, White & Blue Jeans: “A Salute to Our Heroes” event at the Wellington National Golf Club. The highly anticipated event will unite supporters from across the community for an evening dedicated to celebrating service, strengthening local families and investing in a brighter future for Wellington residents in need. A $100 ticket includes a cocktail hour, dinner and dancing.
What began as a celebration of Wellington spirit has grown into an important tradition of generosity, reflecting the remarkable difference that neighbors can make when they rally behind a common cause. This year, the Wellington Community Foundation is setting its sights on an ambitious fundraising goal, with proceeds dedicated to advancing vital assistance for local children, seniors and veterans.
The need for these resources reaches far beyond what many people might imagine. For a struggling parent, receiving school clothing, athletic shoes and a fully stocked backpack can mean one less financial burden and a more confident start to the academic year for a child. For an older resident living alone, a thoughtful birthday remembrance or a holiday meal can restore a sense of connection and belonging. For a former service member navigating mobility challenges, accessibility improvements at home can make the difference between dependence and greater self-sufficiency.
Such moments illustrate why the foundation’s work matters. Its year-round efforts address practical challenges that can otherwise go unnoticed in a community often associated with prosperity. Financial uncertainty affects households in every neighborhood, and local assistance can provide a crucial bridge during difficult circumstances. By directing resources toward carefully identified needs, the foundation helps residents maintain dignity, pursue opportunities and experience the reassurance of knowing that others stand beside them.
Education remains an important priority, with initiatives that help students prepare for classroom success and provide funding for school-based programs. Seasonal outreach brings comfort to households during the holidays, while youth enrichment opportunities give children valuable experiences beyond the school day. Older adults benefit from outreach designed to combat isolation, and veterans receive assistance intended to improve their quality of life. Each initiative reflects a practical investment in people rather than simply a contribution to a cause.
Behind these accomplishments stands a network of generous businesses, civic-minded individuals, community partners and volunteers. This year’s sponsors include: Wellington Regional Medical Center, SOR Entertainment, Shapiro Pertnoy Companies, Seacoast Bank, Barron & Associates, Jim & Paula Sackett, Wellington Florist, Wellington The Magazine, Jeffrey Fromknecht, Medicare Maggie, Mike & Phyllis Gauger, Mickey & Lizz Smith, the Tortoise and the Hare, the Village of Wellington, Diamante Farms Dressage, Roxanne Stein & Stephen Moss and Don & Maureen Gross.
The evening also serves as a reminder that honoring Wellington heroes extends beyond ceremonial recognition. It means remembering the sacrifices of military personnel, standing alongside veterans as they navigate everyday challenges. “This year’s overall theme is THANKS TO YOU!, and we truly mean it,” WCF Chair Jim Sackett said.
For those unable to participate in person, financial gifts remain an important way to support the foundation’s work. Every act of generosity helps create opportunities, ease hardship and reinforce the foundation’s efforts in “building a stronger community.”
Additional information about attending the event, sponsorships and charitable contributions is available at www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.
