United Way of Marion County to host Oct. 15 training seminar

The Children’s Charity Classic event on Feb. 21, 2025, at the HITS Post Time Farm west of Ocala, will combine equestrian jumping with philanthropy to create a fun, impactful day for the community. [Photo courtesy HITS Horse Shows Ocala]

United Way of Marion County has announced a training seminar for local nonprofits serving children. The training session on Oct. 15 will educate nonprofit representatives about the Children’s Charity Classic event, which will be held Feb. 21, 2025, at the HITS Post Time Farm west of Ocala.

The seminar will provide essential information about applying for funding through the inaugural Children’s Charity Classic and will begin at 8:45 a.m. Oct. 15, in the Community Room at United Way, located at 1401 NE 2nd St., Ocala.

Two years ago, Niki Tripodi, United Way of Marion County’s vice president of resource development, saw an equestrian event that combined a love of horses and philanthropy. She said she knew immediately that this was something that needed to happen in Ocala, the Horse Capital of the World.

“I was convinced that many equestrians are dedicated and giving. My passion for children drove me to create the Children’s Charity Classic. This event unites the equestrian world with philanthropy in a fun, impactful event. It was meant to be,” said Tripodi.

“By participating in the Children’s Charity Classic, local nonprofits can gain valuable funding and collaborate with the equine community to uplift the lives of children in Marion County,” she added.

During the Oct. 15 seminar, charities will learn about the application process.

“This seminar is an excellent opportunity for nonprofit organizations to learn about the Children’s Charity Classic. This event combines equestrian jumping with philanthropy to create a fun, impactful day for the community. Seminar attendees will gain insight into how they can participate and benefit from this unique event,” stated Beth Nelson, United Way’s vice president of community impact.

To be considered for funding through the challenge, interested nonprofits must meet the following criteria:

– Must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

– Must have an up-to-date audit or filed 990 forms

– Must serve children in Marion County

– Must provide two impact reports detailing spending

– Must produce a 3-minute video

A committee will select the nonprofits that will compete at the February event.

United Way of Marion County works to create a thriving community where adults and children achieve their full potential with access to a solid education, good health, safe neighborhoods, and jobs that pay a living wage, Nelson shared.

The organization focuses on three core areas: Education, financial stability and the health of Marion County residents

“We work collaboratively with our community partners and other nonprofits to create a positive and sustainable impact in our community. We strategically invest in effective programs and services that solve complex issues, bettering the community for all,” Nelson shared via email.

Nelson said the agency is committed to creating a positive and sustainable impact in the community.

“We strategically invest in effective programs and services that address complex issues, ultimately benefiting everyone in the area. The Children’s Charity Classic exemplifies these goals by providing crucial funding to nonprofits focused on improving the lives of children,” Nelson wrote.

“We aim to award over $150,000 to the participating charities through sponsorships, during-the-event donation opportunities, and peer-to-peer fundraising, enabling them to continue their impactful work within the community. We believe this initiative will significantly enhance our efforts to support children and families in need. This will be a legacy event for our community,” she added.

For additional information or questions regarding the seminar, email Nelson at bnelson@uwmc.org