More than 300 guests gathered at the Santa Ynez Valley Polo Club on recently for a sold-out 2026 Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic benefiting People Helping People (PHP).
“Presented by Happy Canyon Vineyard, the Polo Classic has become one of the region’s premier charitable sporting events, where exceptional polo, hospitality and philanthropy converge to support local families,” organizers said.
Through ticket sales and charitable donations, the event supports People Helping People’s work serving individuals and families throughout the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos.
As a safety-net organization, PHP provides food security, housing stability, behavioral health services, youth leadership, and substance use prevention, healthcare access, care coordination, financial empowerment, and family resource navigation.
Event guests came from throughout California and across the country, including a delegation from St. Louis, Missouri, home to the headquarters of First Bank, one of People Helping People’s longest-standing philanthropic partners.
“Their decision to travel across the country specifically to attend the Polo Classic reflects the enduring relationships and shared commitment that continue to advance PHP’s mission and invest in the future of the Santa Ynez Valley,” organizers said.
“The continued success of the Polo Classic reflects the vision and generosity of Sean Pitts, Jodi Barrack Pitts, and TJ Barrack, whose leadership has transformed the event into far more than a day of polo,” they said. “Their commitment has inspired hundreds of supporters to invest in the well-being of their neighbors while creating an event that celebrates sport, hospitality, and service.”
“There is no greater honor than to help People Helping People,” said Sean Pitts. “It’s about the community that People Helping People supports that are near and dear to our hearts.”
Event attendees were able to enjoy polo while witnessing the generosity of the players, who donated their time, talent, and horses in support of mission of PHP.
Among those taking the field was Barrack, whose role as both an organizer and player reflects the servant leadership that has become synonymous with the Polo Classic.
“This event represents the very best of what happens when passionate people lead with purpose,” said Erica Jane Flores, CEO of People Helping People. “Sean Pitts, Jodi Barrack Pitts, and TJ Barrack have created something that extends well beyond a single day.
“Their leadership has inspired others to give, volunteer, and invest in a stronger future for the families we serve. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership and for the example they continue to set.”
The event comes at a pivotal moment as nonprofit organizations across California navigate increasing demand for services while facing reductions in public funding, PHP said.
“What made Saturday so special wasn’t just the sold-out crowd, it was the generosity behind it,” said Jen Sanregret, PHP’s director of Philanthropy & Community Engagement.
“We are deeply grateful to every sponsor, volunteer, donor, player and guest whose support will create lasting impact for local families,” Sanregret said.
PHP said it also thanks Happy Canyon Vineyard, presenting sponsor; Sean Pitts, Jodi Barrack Pitts, and TJ Barrack for their leadership; and First Bank and its St. Louis delegation for traveling in support of PHP’s mission.
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