FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HETRICK-MARTIN INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES SCHOOL’S OUT 2026 BENEFIT FEATURING CRYSTAL WATERS, JAMIE HANNAH AND LION BABE
Annual Hamptons Celebration Supports LGBTQIA+ Youth Through Education, Advocacy and Life-Saving Services
New York, NY, June 18, 2026 – The Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI), the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit organization serving LGBTQIA+ youth, will host its annual School’s Out benefit on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at a private home in Water Mill, New York. The highly anticipated summer event will bring together leaders in entertainment, media, philanthropy, business, and the Hamptons community for an unforgettable evening supporting HMI’s mission of empowering LGBTQIA+ young people to thrive.
School’s Out has become one of the premier philanthropic events of the Hamptons summer season. Past hosts, attendees, and supporters have included Andy Cohen, Rufus Wainwright, Tamron Hall, Countess Luann de Lesseps, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, Thom Filicia, Darren Starr, Antoni Porowski, Candace Bushnell, and many others committed to advancing equality and opportunity for LGBTQIA+ youth.
This year’s event will be highlighted by performances from international dance music icon Crystal Waters, whose timeless hits include “Gypsy Woman,” and “100% Pure Love,” which helped define a generation of dance music and continue to resonate with audiences around the world. A Grammy-nominated artist and one of the most influential voices in dance music history, Waters remains a global touring performer whose music has inspired audiences for more than three decades.
Joining Waters on the entertainment lineup will be singer-songwriter Jamie Hannah, whose music and advocacy have earned recognition from TIME, People, PAPER, Billboard, and other leading media outlets. Through his powerful storytelling, uplifting message, and authentic artistry, Hannah has emerged as a compelling voice within the LGBTQIA+ community and contemporary pop music.
The evening will also feature a special performance by acclaimed New York duo Lion Babe, whose distinctive blend of soul, funk, R&B, and dance music has garnered praise from Vogue, The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Billboard, and NPR. Comprised of vocalist Jillian Hervey and producer Lucas Goodman, LION BABE has built an international following through their genre-defying sound, electrifying live performances, and collaborations with some of today’s most influential artists.
“School’s Out is both a celebration and a call to action,” said Amy Harclerode, HMI Chief Executive Officer. “Every day, HMI works to ensure that LGBTQIA+ young people have access to the support, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed. This event brings together an extraordinary community of supporters who believe in that mission, and we are grateful to our performers, sponsors, and guests for helping create brighter futures for the youth we serve.”
Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, live entertainment, a captivating synchronized swimmers performance, live auction, and special presentations highlighting HMI’s transformative impact on the lives of young people. Proceeds from the event will directly support HMI’s comprehensive programs, including mental health counseling, educational support, workforce readiness initiatives, arts and culture programming, health and wellness services, and basic needs assistance.
For more than 45 years, HMI has empowered LGBTQIA+ youth through counseling, educational support, workforce development, and community-building programs. The annual School’s Out Benefit is a vital fundraiser that helps ensure young people continue to have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Additional celebrity guests, hosts, and supporters will be announced in the coming weeks.
For sponsorship opportunities, ticket information, or media inquiries, please contact Scott Currie scott@anchorcommunication.com.
ABOUT HETRICK-MARTIN INSTITUTE
Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI) is the nation’s oldest LGBTQIA+ youth organization serving queer and trans youth, primarily of color, between the ages of 13 and 24. Through a comprehensive package of direct services and referrals, the organization fosters healthy youth development. HMI’s staff promotes excellence in the delivery of youth services and uses its expertise to create innovative programs that other organizations may use as models. HMI serves a diverse community, the vast majority of whom identify as Black or people of color. The youth organization is dedicated to building its approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels, throughout its operations and functions.
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Press Contact:
Scott Currie
Anchor Communications
917-319-4078
scott@anchorcommunication.com
