Wellington, Fla. – February 1, 2026—The 17th Annual Great Charity Challenge sponsored by Fidelity Investments® (GCC) once again demonstrated the powerful role sport can play in driving meaningful community change. Held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Wellington International during the Winter Equestrian Festival, the event raised more than $2.3 million, benefiting a grand total of 90 Palm Beach County nonprofit organizations.
Since its founding in 2009 by Mark and Paige Bellissimo, the GCC has distributed more than $24 million to 370 local nonprofits, operating with a commitment to transparency that ensures every dollar raised is directed back into the community.
Under the lights of the International Arena, 36 teams took part in a relay-style jumping competition during “Saturday Night Lights.” Each team—comprised of three riders ranging from emerging talent to Olympic-level competitors—was randomly paired with a local charity, racing not only for top honors but to generate vital funding for their assigned organizations.
GCC has distributed more than $24 million to 370 local nonprofits, this year adding $2.3 million to that total. Photo ©Sportfot
“Each year, the Great Charity Challenge continues to grow because of the unwavering support of our partners and donors,” said Anne Caroline Valtin, GCC Executive Director. “Their belief in our mission allows us to expand our reach and strengthen the vital work of Palm Beach County nonprofits, and we are deeply thankful for their ongoing commitment.”
All participating nonprofits received a minimum grant of $15,000, reinforcing the GCC’s belief that everyone involved is a winner.
The evening’s top prize of $100,000 was awarded to Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida, represented by Double Wood Farm’s Isabelle Ehman, Elizabeth Rinehart and Luke Rinehart, supported by MARS Equestrian.
The evening’s top prize of $100,000 was awarded to Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida. Photo ©Sportfot
“We create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses across South Florida,” Jessica Rivera, Senior Community Engagement Specialist for Make-A-Wish of Southern Florida, an organization making its first appearance as part of GCC. “Our mission is to inject magic into children’s lives when they need it most. These are children ages 2.5 to 18, and we connect with them to help them achieve anything they wish for in the world.
“Wishes aren’t just nice, they’re necessary,” continued Rivera, who was joined for GCC by Katarina Alshaier, Make-A-Wish ambassador and previous wish recipient. “Ten wishes will be granted because of this night. The energy, teamwork and collaboration—it has made me love the equestrian community.”
Coming in second place was the team for Urban League of Palm Beach County, sponsored by Blackheart Farm and supporting sponsor J&D Burrows Foundation. The team consisted of Campbell Kahn, Lukene Arenas Saravia and Paul O’Shea, earning $90,000 for their charity.
The Education Foundation of Palm Beach County finished third and won $80,000. The team was made up of Collin, Olivia and Shane Sweetnam, sponsored by Spy Coast & Preston, and supporting sponsors Wingrove Academy.
The winning team was represented by Double Wood Farm’s Isabelle Ehman, Elizabeth Rinehart and Luke Rinehart, supported by MARS Equestrian. Photo ©Sportfot
The night’s festivities kicked off with the Inaugural Costume Relay Race, generously presented by the Postage Stamp Farm Foundation and Artemis Farms. The youth-focused competition awarded $55,000 in grants to six pre-selected nonprofit organizations, underscoring the GCC’s message of “Doing Good at Any Age.”
Beyond the main competition, the GCC distributed 54 additional grants, extending its impact across education, healthcare, animal welfare, housing, and family services throughout Palm Beach County.
One of the evening’s standout initiatives was the Volunteer Initiative, proudly supported by Dana Murphy, Keller Williams Wellington, in partnership with the GCC, which recognized the essential role volunteers play in sustaining local nonprofits. Through this program, 21 organizations each received $4,000 grants (and more), based on volunteer-submitted testimonials highlighting their dedication and service.
The event’s success was made possible by the continued support of donors, sponsors, and partners, including United Way of Palm Beach County, whose involvement amplifies the GCC’s reach and ensures seamless event execution, and South Florida PBS.
“Fidelity Investments is proud to give back by supporting and uplifting the communities we serve and to be the presenting sponsor of the Winter Equestrian Festival and the 17th edition of the Great Charity Challenge,” said Matthew Gibson, Head of Southeast Region, Fidelity Investments. “Congratulations to this year’s participants and thank you to all involved in making this year’s event such a success.”
As the Great Charity Challenge continues to grow, its collaborative model—uniting equestrians, philanthropists, volunteers, and nonprofit leaders—remains a powerful force for good across Palm Beach County.
A full list of participating charities and a detailed breakdown of funds distributed is available at www.GreatCharityChallenge.com.
