Salvation Army Palm Beach County launches Young Allies to back veterans

The Salvation Army of Palm Beach County has launched the Young Allies, a new group of young professionals that has already raised nearly $200,000 for homeless veterans. The group will spotlight its efforts at the third annual Red Shield benefit at Drive Shack in West Palm Beach on Sept. 23.

Why it matters: - The Young Allies are aimed at building a new generation of donors and volunteers for Salvation Army programs across Palm Beach County. - The group has already raised nearly $200,000 for programs serving homeless veterans, giving the effort immediate fundraising momentum. - Proceeds from the next major event will support housing, case management and employment services for veterans experiencing homelessness.

What happened: - The Salvation Army of Palm Beach County formally introduced the Young Allies, a philanthropic society of young professionals. - The launch took place at a reception at Salute Ristorante in Palm Beach, where founding members met with Salvation Army leadership and supporters. - The announcement came ahead of the third annual Red Shield at Drive Shack, set for Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2026, at Drive Shack in West Palm Beach.

The details: - The Young Allies are focused on supporting Salvation Army work in veteran support, youth programs, food distribution, disaster services and homelessness prevention. - Members are expected to contribute time, talent and professional networks through events, peer recruiting and awareness efforts. - Major Christopher Thornhill, Area Commander for The Salvation Army of Palm Beach County, said the group has shown dedication and effectiveness in support of homeless veterans. - Grace Walker, a founding member and Eagle Sponsor for the event, said the group is just beginning and hopes more young professionals join the effort. - The Red Shield at Drive Shack will run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Drive Shack, 1710 Belvedere Rd., West Palm Beach, FL 33406. - The event will feature golf, cocktails and dinner. - Individual tickets, foursomes and sponsorships are available through the event page. - Sponsorship recognition remains open for businesses and families that want to support the evening. - The Salvation Army says the broader organization serves 39 municipalities through corps community centers and social service programs. - Those programs include emergency assistance, housing and homeless services, veteran support, youth programs, feeding programs and disaster response.

Between the lines: - The Young Allies appear designed to turn philanthropy into a social entry point for younger donors who may be more likely to engage through events and peer networks than traditional fundraising channels. - The focus on veterans gives the group a concrete cause with visible local need and a clear use for donations. - The early fundraising total suggests the group has already found traction before its first major signature event of the season.

What's next: - The Young Allies are welcoming new members and inviting young professionals to attend the Sept. 23 benefit or help underwrite the event. - Organizers expect the Red Shield at Drive Shack to serve as a key fundraiser and a recruiting moment for the group. - More information is available through the event link or by contacting Michelle Rodriguez at Michelle.Rodriguez@uss.salvationarmy.org or 561-686-3530.

The bottom line: - The Salvation Army of Palm Beach County is betting on a younger donor base to expand support for veterans and other local services, and the new group has already shown fundraising power.