The philanthropic spirit of Indian River County was on full display this season as members of the Quail Valley Charities committee, alongside the dedicated Quail Valley team, executed a spectacular multi-week series of fundraising events. Through a combination of member contributions, corporate sponsorships, auctions, and raffles, the local community came together to support essential programs focused on children and education.
The 24th annual Quail Valley Charities fundraising season successfully generated just over $1 million. These funds will be distributed as grants to 45 local nonprofit children’s programs, bringing the organization’s total community funding to more than $15.5 million since its inception in 2001.
Before the festivities even began, the Charities committee conducted a rigorous review of grant applications and held extensive interviews to select the 2026 program recipients, which notably includes the Quail Valley Employee Scholarship Fund. The fundraising marathon officially kicked off in mid-December with a Junior Golf Tournament at the Golf Club’s Covey Course. This paved the way for three action-packed weeks in January, starting with a two-day Charity Cup Golf tournament.
The sheer variety of events ensured there was something for every local philanthropist. A four-day Tennis Tournament at the River Club drew a record-breaking 176 participants from across the country. Meanwhile, the Riverhouse hosted passionate competitions with a record turnout for Mah Jongg and two highly competitive Bridge games.
Fitness and outdoor enthusiasts were also well-served. The popular and fitness-based Barre and Bubbly event returned enthusiastically to the Boathouse, while others traveled to the Blackwater Creek Ranch for the annual Pheasant Tower Shoot. Despite unseasonably frigid Florida temperatures, participants turned out in droves for the 1-Mile Run, 5K Walk/Run, and Kids Run, where they were cheered on by legendary distance runner Jack Fultz, winner of the 1976 Boston Marathon.
A major highlight of the fundraising season was the quickly sold-out Dining Under the Stars evening at the Pointe. Seated at elegant long tables illuminated by twinkling lights, guests were treated to a remarkable five-course dinner prepared by Chef Charlie Valentin.
The culinary experience included:
- A Poisson Cru starter, featuring halibut ceviche served in a coconut half.
- Three creative intermediate dishes highlighting vibrant culinary talent.
- A highly unusual and decadent Bananas and Caviar dessert to conclude the meal.
The sumptuous meal was masterfully paired with selections from the Orin Swift Winery, now owned by E. & J. Gallo. Christell Foote, a Gallo winery sales district manager, guided guests through the selections, noting the artistic labels designed by winemaker David Phinney. A standout pour was the Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs—the first commercial American Chardonnay-based sparkling wine, famously served during the 1972 “Toast to Peace” in Beijing.
The 2025-2026 Quail Valley Charities season culminated in a picturesque Celebration Brunch at the Pointe. During the finale, QVC Chairperson Wanda Lincoln expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering dedication of the Quail team members and the formidable Charities committee. Executive Director Martha Redner and Assistant Director Kristen Touchberry both echoed these sentiments, noting that the overwhelming trust and generosity of the local membership continue to directly elevate the lives of children throughout the Vero Beach and wider Indian River County community.
