65th International Red Cross Ball Raises $2.8M, Launches Palm Beach Social Season at The Breakers

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A Record Night for the American Red Cross
The Palm Beach and Treasure Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross marked a milestone evening on Jan. 9 at The Breakers Palm Beach, where the 65th International Red Cross Ball raised more than $2.8 million to support the Red Cross mission, including Service to the Armed Forces programs serving U.S. military members and their families.

International Ambassadors with Trevor Riggen, Kate Forbes, Ambassador Bonnie McElveen Hunter, Dame Amanda Schumacher and Charles Schumacher. Photo by Capehart Photography

Global Dignitaries, Military Heroes
More than 490 guests attended, including international ambassadors and decorated members of the U.S. Armed Forces. The black-tie gala continues to stand as one of Palm Beach’s most prestigious philanthropic events.

Chairmen Honored for Leadership and Legacy
For the fourth consecutive year, Dame Amanda Schumacher and Charles Schumacher chaired the Ball. During the evening, they were inducted into the Red Cross Chairman’s Council, recognizing lifetime giving exceeding $1 million.

Dame Amanda and Charles Schumacher. Photo by Capehart Photography

Patriots Legacy Award Presented to ‘Team George’
The 2026 Patriots Legacy Award honored Gen. Randy A. George, 41st Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army, and his wife Patty George, recognizing a lifetime of service as a military family. Gen. George delivered the keynote address, underscoring the shared humanitarian bond between the U.S. Army and the American Red Cross.

General Randy George and Mrs Patty George. Photo by Capehart Photography

Moving Tributes and Military Tradition
Highlights included a performance by the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps and remarks from Medal of Honor recipient Earl Plumlee, who shared how the Red Cross helped him rebuild after disaster—shaping his lifelong commitment to service.

Ret. Master Seargeant Earl Plumlee Medal of Honor Recipient. Photo by Capehart Photography

International Flair and Philanthropic Honors
Guests mingled with ambassadors representing more than a dozen countries. Thomas Burke and LifeWave received the Corporate Ambassador Award for their longstanding humanitarian support and leadership gift launching the Call to Heart initiative.

Krista Coletti and Thomas Burke. Photo by Capehart Photography

A Celebratory Close with Historic Meaning
The evening concluded with a candlelit parade of birthday cakes, symbolically ushering in celebrations ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.

The American Red Cross reports that an average of 90 cents of every dollar donated supports care and comfort for those in need.

redcross.org