Over 600 guests including Kelsie Watts, Candace Bushnell, and Kelly Bensimon gathered for a spectacular evening of support, performance, and celebration.
Sagaponack, NY, August 2, 2025, In a landmark celebration of its 25th annual School’s Out benefit, the Hetrick Martin Institute (HMI) shattered records once again by raising an unprecedented $900,000 to support LGBTQIA+ youth. Hosted at the magnificent Sagaponack estate of Christi Offutt and Soraida Bedoya, the event marked both the highest-grossing and most star-studded evening in the summer benefit’s history.
More than 600 guests turned out in support of HMI, the nation’s oldest LGBTQIA+ youth-serving organization. The evening was led by co-chairs Ben Dixon and Tonia Steck, alongside members of HMI’s Board of Directors and Associate Board, whose tireless efforts and strategic partnerships drove this year’s record-breaking success.
A Night of Glamour and Generosity
The night unfolded beneath a stunning tent designed by Anthony Taccetta Event Design and featured a curated Best of the Hamptons dinner experience with culinary partners including Petrossian Caviar, STK Steak, Almond Restaurant, and the ever-iconic Duryea’s Lobster Cobb Salad. The atmosphere was elevated with aerial artists, human flower greeters, and dancers clad in giant mirrored disco-ball costumes. The result was a whimsical and high-energy environment that transitioned seamlessly from dinner to dance floor.
Taking center stage, Broadway star and pop artist Kelsie Watts delivered a powerhouse performance, stunning the crowd with her vocals and sharing a heartfelt message: “Every human should have access to mental health resources, education, performing arts resources, and support. It was an honor to perform and support HMI’s mission.”
The Guest List
The host committee and guest list featured a wide array of cultural icons and philanthropic champions. Notable attendees included
Andy Cohen
Countess Luann de Lesseps
Rufus Wainwright
Kelly Killoren Bensimon
Candace Bushnell
Frank DiLella
Thom Filicia
Isaac Boots
Fern Mallis
Eric Lemonides
Sydney Sadick
Peter Som
Darren Star
The live auction, led by Nick Depner and assisted by Kelly Bensimon, featured coveted items like United Airlines flights and a luxury villa escape in Baja, California. The energy and enthusiasm encouraged guests to give generously.
A Mission That Matters
Fashion designer Dennis Basso joined Ben Dixon and Amy Harclerode, CEO of HMI, for a powerful paddle raise that brought the crowd to its feet. Harclerode remarked, “School’s Out is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when the community shows up for our youth. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, we raised $900,000 to ensure queer and trans young people have the safety, affirmation, and mental health support they deserve.”
Sponsors and Partners
The event was generously supported by sponsors including Nordstrom, United Airlines, Anthony Taccetta Event Design, Diageo, Dry Farm Wines, Sober in Central Park, Dixon Advisory, and The Hub.
About Hetrick Martin Institute (HMI)
Founded 46 years ago, the Hetrick Martin Institute is the nation’s oldest LGBTQIA+ youth organization serving queer and trans youth, primarily of color, between the ages of 13 and 24. With a comprehensive range of direct services and referrals, HMI supports healthy youth development in a safe, affirming environment. The organization is deeply committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion across all levels of its work.
