Play for P.I.N.K. Millbrook
Since 2015, Play for P.I.N.K. Millbrook has raised over $1.5 million for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation—one luncheon at a time. As the event marks its 11th year this July, co-chair Beth Ledy reflects on how far the community has come, and why the work still matters.
How did Play for P.I.N.K. begin, and how has it evolved?
The event began in 2015 as a small golf and tennis event at Millbrook Golf and Tennis Club, founded by Beth Ledy with support from Betsy Moss, Lorna Graev, and Deborah Krulewitch. Even during Covid the event persevered—a virtual gathering at Barbara Tober’s
Yellowframe Farm raised over $100,000 with a matching donor grant. In 2021 it moved to Mashomack Fish & Game Preserve and shifted to a luncheon format, adding a BCRF- funded researcher, an oncologist from title sponsor the Dyson Breast Center at Vassar
Hospital, and BCRF president Donna McKay. One hundred percent of net proceeds go to BCRF.
Why does that matter to donors?
Donors trust that their money goes directly to scientists. BCRF holds a four-star Charity Navigator rating and an A+ from CharityWatch. Nationally in 2025, Play for P.I.N.K. raised $7 million across 250-plus events, supporting 22 breast cancer researchers. This year’s speakers include a Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory scientist, the BCRF president, and Dr. Gabi Barmettler of the Dyson Breast Center.
What do you hope guests take away?
We want guests to leave knowing their contributions are making a difference. Because of this research, deaths from breast cancer have dropped 44 percent since 1989, and the five-year survival rate for women with invasive breast cancer is now 91 percent. Dr. dos Santos’ work on how pregnancy and hormonal transitions influence breast cancer risk in young women is opening new prevention pathways. Dr. Barmettler will connect that research to treatments available right here at the Dyson Breast Center.
How do you balance the spirit of celebration with the weight of the cause?
Guests arrive dressed for it—pink attire and festive hats are part of the tradition. We are celebrating real progress, and we believe knowledge brings power. We hope guests leavewith a greater sense of awareness and share what they have learned over the past 11 years with others. We encourage everyone to get tested regularly, perform monthly self-breast exams, and speak with their doctor if they have a family history of breast cancer or any cancer.
What does 11 years of community loyalty tell you?
We live in a philanthropic, well-educated community that seeks out the latest information. Each year brings new research and new conversations. We’re also fortunate that dedicated researchers give a full day away from their work to share what they’re discovering.
Who is behind the event this year?
Catering is by Mashomack. The co-chairs are Julia Descoteaux, Beth Ledy, Ali Marsal, Joyce Mykoniatis, and Stephania Quartararo. In place of a silent auction, supporter Michael Poulin will lead a Paddle Raise. Friday, July 10 at Mashomack Preserve, Pine Plains.
