The Ireland Funds 33rd Palm Beach Emerald Isle Ball was held on February 15, 2024, at The Breakers. The event, co-chaired by Lore Moran Dodge, Michele Kessler, Hillie Mahoney, Sheila O’Malley Fuchs, and Thomas C. Quick, drew nearly 200 guests that included noteworthy individuals, civic leaders, major donors and friends — all who gathered for an evening of friendship and philanthropy.
The presentation of the 2024 Community Leadership Award, was made by Board Director Thomas C. Quick, to James R. Borynack and Adolfo Zaralegui in recognition of their steadfast commitment to charitable causes within Palm Beach County and well beyond.
“Our support began at a ball we attended years ago when we saw how The Ireland Funds’ work impacted the lives of so many. We are proud to be a part of this organization and accept this award on behalf of Jimmy’s Irish mother and his Ukrainian father. Tonight, we are making a $25,000 pledge to The Ireland Funds’ Ukrainian Relief Fund in honor of Jimmy’s father in support of their humanitarian efforts,” Zaralegui said.
After dinner, Tom Quick returned to the podium and conducted a live auction. Quick then introduced tenor Seán Tester and his accompanist, Deborah Kelleher from the Royal Irish Academy of Music, whose live performance concluded with the beloved Irish ballad, “Danny Boy.”
Through the years, The Ireland Funds has honored the service and generosity of its Palm Beach Ball chairs, honorees and supporters by allocating a portion of Gala proceeds to benefit local Palm Beach charities. This year, The Ireland Funds will make a donation to Catholic Charities of the Dioceses of Palm Beach in honor of Borynack and Zaralegui.
Photographer: Carrie Bradburn- Capehart Photography
