Cynthia and Rob Ryan PHOTO BY MARY SCHENKEL

There was no horsing around at the Kentucky Derby-themed Night at the Races fundraiser at the Heritage Center, hosted by the Veterans Council of Indian River County to honor veterans and raise funds to assist veterans in need.

The stakes were high as supporters placed their bets – using funny money – on their favorite horses in a series of eight races with horses aptly named The General, Warhawk and Para Trooper, among others. Winners could later ‘cash in’ the prize money for raffle tickets.

Other amusements throughout the course of the evening included dancing to the sounds of the Riptide Band, who curated an exceptional equine and gambling playlist, a Derby hat contest, wine pull and, of course, a bourbon wall.

After working up an appetite on the dance floor, folks enjoyed a delectable spread by Wild Thyme Catering as they sipped on icy Mint Juleps and other libations.

“In fiscal year 2022, the Veterans Council provided $220,000 of direct aid that went directly to veterans in Indian River County,” said Cynthia Ryan, VCIRC executive director, as she welcomed guests.

During that time, the Veterans Councils provided $122,978 toward in-home repairs to veterans unable to afford or physically unable to make the repairs themselves. Comparing the first half of the fiscal years 2022 and 2023, their program data indicates a 75 percent increase in the amount of aid provided.

“The need is ever-growing, and we currently have a waitlist of veterans,” said Ryan.

To expand assistance, the Veterans Council has implemented a holistic approach to give veterans access to local veterans groups and resources aimed at helping to improve their quality of life, including direct aid, veteran services, employment, transportation to doctor’s appointments locally and to the VA in West Palm Beach, mental health services, education and veteran social clubs.

Represented in the “winner’s circle” that evening were the more than 15,000 veterans who live in Indian River County.

“Thank you for being here. It really does support all of our veterans,” said Fr. Dave Newhart, VCIRC board chairman. He added that when members of the armed services come home, they often have difficulty transitioning back into society.

“We handle everybody from World War II to any veteran that needs help and assistance.

It’s by you supporting us, doing what you’re doing, that makes the veteran more sustainable in our county and gives them a better life,” he continued.

For more information, visit veteranscirc.com.

Photos by Mary Schenkel