In a significant move towards strengthening its support for the local community in and around St. Moritz, Badrutt’s Palace has launched its Foundation to help the most disadvantaged in society and create a brighter future for them.
With a commitment to building a just and fair society, the Badrutt’s Palace Foundation will give vital resources to local good causes providing transformative support, from helping physically or mentally disadvantaged individuals to promoting cultural and sporting initiatives, and from fostering education and research to advancing healthcare and environmental protection.
The Foundation will be supported by donations and contributions from Badrutt’s Palace, ensuring its sustainability for many years to come. For several decades, the hotel has supported local charities through money raised from its annual Christmas Tree Auction – a hugely popular event on the social calendar of St. Moritz. Now, with the Foundation, it has a vehicle solely for that purpose, helping to give these efforts visibility, transparency and a broader base to collect donations.
“We are incredibly fortunate to operate in such a magnificent location, and it’s our responsibility to contribute to the wellbeing of the community that supports us,” explains Richard Leuenberger, Managing Director at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel. “Through the Badrutt’s Palace Foundation, we aim to ensure that everyone in this valley can thrive and enjoy the exceptional quality of life that we all cherish. It’s a way for us to give back and sustain this wonderful place for generations to come.”
Spirit of compassion
The Badrutt family has long been a cornerstone in shaping St. Moritz, driving innovation and growth while ensuring the local community prospers alongside. The Badrutt’s PalaceFoundation embodies this spirit of compassion and a commitment to social responsibility.
The local beneficiaries of the Foundation include KiBE Kinderbetreuung Oberengadin, which offers essential childcare services, and the Ski School for the Blind in St. Moritz, promoting inclusivity by offering recreational opportunities for the visually impaired. Others receiving support include Avegnir and Movimiento, organisations that each provide educational and social services to those in need. These initiatives were selected because they align with the Foundation’s core mission of improving the quality of life for all residents, especially the most vulnerable.
The main fundraising event for 2024 will be the Christmas Tree Auction, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2023, raising CHF351,900 for good causes. The black-tie evening on 21 December 2024 takes place in the intimate Embassy Ballroom of Badrutt’s Palace. Ornately decorated Christmas trees and exclusive gifts, donated by luxury brands from the worlds of fashion, jewellery, art and gastronomy, will be auctioned off to the highest bidder during a celebratory gala dinner, featuring a three-course menu created by Jeremy Degras, Executive Chef at the Palace. Those unable to attend can participate in a silent online auction, starting on 17 December 2024, ensuring the event raises as much money as possible.
Bucherer, Cartier, Céline, Fendi, Moncler and Zegna are just some of the prestigious names participating, each donating a bespoke Christmas tree, created especially for the auction, as well as a priceless experience. Details of the trees and gifts are top secret, but expect them to be extraordinary. Memorable pieces from past auctions include Prada’s statement black-and-white geometric tree in art-deco style and Cartier’s magnificent tree adorned with panther cub soft toys and red ribbons. Previous gifts have included bottles of the finest wine, a luxury stay in Florence with flights and front row seats to a fashion show.
The Foundation has plans to become active throughout the year and is exploring various initiatives that will engage our guests and partners in contributing to the community’s wellbeing and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the beautiful Engadin Valley. Join us in our mission to create a lasting impact where it matters most.
For more details, email Anne-Sophie Bonnisseau at foundation@badruttspalace.com
