An international destination for the rich and famous, Palm Beach stands out as it should.
Its exquisite surroundings are hard to top anywhere else in the world. From its lush gardens to its majestic Mediterranean styled villas, Palm Beach is spectacular in every way. Many of the very well-heeled retire to Palm Beach because of its beauty, privacy, and sophistication. What the outsider who is not familiar with Palm Beach does not see is the how much of the social structure of Palm Beach revolves around philanthropy.
As a visitor, I have observed how philanthropy plays a major role in the lives of its most social citizens. One good friend who moved to Palm Beach a number of years ago, and who is active both in the social and philanthropic world spoke very openly to me. She explained how socializing in Palm Beach goes hand in hand with philanthropy. In other words, the social set expects its members to be active in the philanthropic world of Palm Beach. Simply put, those that have should make it part of their life to give back.
Personally, I find this very appealing. When my husband and I go to Palm Beach, we try to make a point of supporting at least one charity event during our stay. Almost all of the Palm Beach charity galas are very well attended and absolutely beautiful!
Entertaining friends is another part of the social structure of Palm Beach. Palm Beach citizens love to give parties of all sorts. Many of the private parties also revolve around philanthropy.
Our stay in Palm Beach, from just after Christmas until right after New Year’s Day, was short but dreamy.
Although we have many friends in Palm Beach, we made a point of spending quite a bit of private time together. My husband, Martin, and I needed to relax and that is exactly what we did! We saw friends almost every night but most days we stayed poolside or strolled down beautiful Worth Avenue.
Early in the week, we attended one very special large cocktail party given by friends, Gregory Dryer and KIm Renk. Midweek, I held a luncheon for longtime friends, Sharon Bush and Christine Schott, both of whom have recently purchased homes in Palm Beach.
My observation is that there are almost no charity galas during Christmas and New Year’s Day and this is because most people spend the holiday time with loved ones. However, the charity world starts up again, full swing during early January. I hope to be back to Palm Beach soon to attend and support some of the wonderful charities events held in this wonderful town!
By Terri Lynn, SouthFloridaReporter.com, Managing Editor, Jan. 16, 2016
