05/19/2026
GAY POLO LEAGUE RAISED MORE THAN $52,000 FOR EQUALITY FLORIDA'S SAFE & HEALTHY SCHOOLS PROJECT!
We are proud to announce that more than $52,000 was raised to benefit the Equality Florida Safe & Healthy Schools Project during the recent Cherry Knoll Farm International Gay Polo Tournament, held April 25 in Wellington.
The funds raised will support a local youth education initiative in Palm Beach County scheduled for early 2027.
“We are deeply grateful for the Gay Polo League’s generous support for our work to make schools safer and more affirming for LGBTQ youth,” said Equality Florida Executive Director Stratton Pollitzer. “With GPL’s contribution, our Safe & Healthy Schools Project will now host its premier annual conference right here in Palm Beach County, ensuring local education leaders across the district benefit from this national model for building safe and affirming school environments.”
“Over the years, GPL has raised money to benefit various LGBTQ charities,” said GPL Founder and President Chip McKenney. “This year, our goal was to partner with a locally focused charity with established programs dedicated to youth education. Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project aligned perfectly with our mission, and we are proud that our event generated enough support to fund a local program in Palm Beach County.”
McKenney also expressed gratitude to the tournament’s supporters and sponsors, particularly longtime GPL sponsor Margaret H. Duprey, whose generous “challenge match” pledge inspired attendees and donors to contribute.
“We are extremely grateful to everyone who donated to our cause,” McKenney added. “Margaret H. Duprey’s commitment to match donations dollar-for-dollar up to a designated amount helped motivate our supporters and significantly increased the impact of the fundraising effort.”
“Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project creates educational environments where every LGBTQ student feels safe enough to learn, supported enough to grow, and valued for exactly who they are. This is the work that changes–and saves–young lives and that’s why I’m so proud to support it.” expressed Margaret H. Duprey, owner of Cherry Knoll Farm, the title sponsor of the International Gay Polo Tournament 2026.
The Cherry Knoll Farm International Gay Polo Tournament continues to serve as one of GPL’s signature events, bringing together athletes, supporters, and community leaders to celebrate inclusivity, sportsmanship, and philanthropy.
Photo L - R: Jack Forsyth, Palm Beach Development Leader, Equality Florida, Margaret H. Duprey, owner Cherry Knoll Farm, Nick Machuca, Deputy Director of Development, Equality Florida & Chip McKenney, GPL Founder & President
Photo credit: Gustavo Larrosa
