DJ Rice, Max Wilkey, King Van Nostrand Jr, Boots Van Nostrand, Moly Rice, Jane Wilkey, and King Van Nostrand REAR Megan & Oliver Wilkey. PHOTO BY BRITTANY NORAIR

Music and laughter trickled out of the Heritage Center during a Lyrics & Laughs fundraiser to support the Sally Wilkey Foundation’s summer camp program. The Sally Wilkey Foundation was established in memory of Vero Beach resident Sally Wilkey, an avid tennis player who tragically lost her battle with brain cancer in 2019.

Brimming with heartfelt generosity, supporters, sponsors and advocates rallied behind the foundation’s mission to enrich the lives of underserved youth through tennis instruction, academic support and life skills development.

Its slogan, “Changing lives through the power of tennis, mentors, and meals,” is based on the premise that tennis is more than a game. The healthy activity teaches discipline, requires commitment, and develops social skills. What players learn on the court carries over into their lives off the court.

Jane Wilkey, foundation president and Sally’s mother, shared that children receive free tennis lessons and tutoring on Saturdays during the school year and during an eight-week summer camp.

“Our foundation provides staff members, academic support, meals, equipment and mentoring to underserved children and their families,” she said. She added that 10 pros and roughly 18 volunteers work with more than 40 kids on Saturdays during the school year and as many as 55 during the summer camp.

It was no accident that the Wilkey family chose tennis to reach children and help them strive for better lives. Sally was the granddaughter of tennis legend King Van Nostrand, a leader in the International Tennis Federation senior tennis competitions.

“It has been an incredible journey for our family, filled with joy and growth. The coaches’ commitment to the children and the community is truly commendable, going above and beyond to create a positive experience for everyone involved,” said Brooke Farmer, whose son has participated in the program for three years.

“As we reflect on our time with the Sally Wilkey Foundation, I am certain that Sally herself would be proud of the impact it has had on so many lives, including ours. We feel truly blessed to be a part of this incredible foundation, and we look forward to many more years of shared learning and accomplishments,” Farmer added.

Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed an array of passed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails as they perused various auction items. And the show celebrated Sally’s joyful personality and her legacy of love and laughter. Singer-songwriter Anna Vaus captivated the audience with her soulful music, and later, comedian Chase O’Donnell’s comedic quips elicited smiles and levity.

For more information, visit SallyWilkeyFoundation.org.

Photos by Brittany Norair