Who’s ready to raise the roof for a great cause? Legendary New York nightlife icon DJ Lina Bradford will be on the turntables, synchronized swimmers will be wowing the crowds from the pool, and “Best of the Hamptons” cuisine will be served at dinner this Saturday for the 25th anniversary of School’s Out, the annual Hamptons fundraising gala in support of the Hetrick-Martin Institute. A highlight of the summer season gala circuit, the night routinely draws a fabulous mix of star power and stylish revelers, all banding together to support the incredible work HMI does in support of some of our most vulnerable. Last year’s benefit raised over $760,000.
For over 45 years, HMI has been at the forefront of meeting the needs of LGBTQIA+ youth—especially those experiencing economic hardship, homelessness or systemic discrimination. Through trauma-informed, strengths-based and liberation-centered frameworks, HMI provides lifesaving mental health support while empowering young people to thrive socially, academically and professionally.
The stars line up to support this vital cause every year, and this summer is no different: The 2025 host committee includes the likes of Rufus Wainwright, Andy Cohen, Candace Bushnell, Peter Som, Countess Luann de Lesseps and Kelly Bensimon. Burgeoning pop star Kelsie Watts is taking a night off from SIX The Musical on Broadway to perform her new single, “Fit In,” a fitting pop juggernaut for the night, celebrating inclusivity.
Have you gotten your ticket yet? Your contribution will help support HMI’s ambitious plans to empower LGBTQIA+ organizations nationwide to deliver culturally competent mental health care. HMI is leading the largest, most targeted mental health initiative in history, focusing on LGBTQIA+ youth, especially youth of color, who face significant barriers to support. By joining today, you have the rare chance to be part of a transformative movement that will impact countless lives. Over the next five years, HMI intends to expand access to affirming care by training 15,000 providers, partnering with more than 350 organizations and supporting 6 million LGBTQIA+ youth globally.
By supporting HMI, donors will help reduce suicide risks among vulnerable youth and expand access to lifesaving mental health services. Act now to stand with HMI in this crucial work. Your support today helps build a safer, more inclusive future where all LGBTQIA+ youth can thrive. Visit hmi.org/donate; hmischoolsout.com