School’s Out co-chairs, Ben Dixon, Alessandro Ford-Rippolone and Brian Kelly, together with this year’s hosts, Orsman and Castro and HMI’s Board of Directors, set out to help the non-profit surpass last year’s record-breaking number by bringing in major sponsorships and donations to support the event. Guests were entertained by mermen and a captivating performance featuring female synchronized swimmers presented by WMC Creative and sponsored by Douglas Elliman’s Mackay | Dixon Team.

A cocktail reception that included a live and silent auction kicked off the event, followed by a Best of the Hamptons dinner featuring courses from Duryea’s, STK Steakhouse, Almond Restaurant and Kerber’s Farm. The dinner’s place settings featured exquisite silver of exceptional value generously provided by Christofle, and Flowers Bodega added the perfect finishing touch to the tablescapes with their stunning and vibrant floral arrangements. During the dinner, a paddle raise led by celebrity American fashion designer, Dennis Basso, helped HMI beat its intended goal for the evening.

HMI Interim CEO and Chief Development Officer, Amy Harclerode said, “The money raised from School’s Out plays a vital role in enabling HMI to address the growing needs of LGBTQIA+ youth who rely on our drop-in center each year, providing them with free access to essential resources and services. The significant rise in young people seeking counseling and mental health support due to anti-LGBTQ legislation and sentiment has been profound. The funds raised also enable HMI to conduct critical outreach and engagement, reaching over 4,000 youth who may never make it to HMI, annually through the Kiki Community and Services for Homeless Youth. We’re grateful to everyone who contributed to making this year’s event an astounding success.”

School’s Out Host Nathan Orsman remarked, “We have been attending School’s Out for many years and were honored to host this year’s event. Jose and I are humbled by the generosity of our close friends and family that helped smash this year’s fundraising goal. Raising awareness for the mental health crisis among LGBTQIA+ youth, and more broadly for the incredible work that HMI does, is especially important to us, and we’re thrilled this year’s event made such an impact for so many.”  

Kelly Ripa and her husband and co-host, Mark Consuelos, on Monday’s July 17 episode of Live with Kelly and Mark, recounted the memorable moments from HMI’s School’s Out event. Watch the video below.