Monday, July 18, 2011

Hamptons for Haiti 2011

New photos in the Gallery of Liev attending the 2011 Hamptons for Haiti Benefit. For a more in depth description of the event and who was there, see below.

 

"Hamptons for Haiti" Shines Light of Hope

Star power unites to help change lives in Haiti.
Sunday’s star-studded “Hamptons For Haiti” fundraiser at the Ross School, is far more than just another glittering summer cocktail gala. The benefit which will feature a slate of A-list prime-time celebs, including Maria Bello, Mariska Hargitay, Liev Schreiber, Keifer Sutherland and many more, who will lend their star power to making in a difference in the lives of impoverished children and rape victims in Haiti.

The event, which features a cocktail brunch, live auction – with exciting prizes including walk-on roles on primetime television shows – and a musical performance by The Diva Barbara Guillaume, benefits We Advance and Global Dirt, two not for profit organizations aimed at bettering tomorrows.

Global Disaster Immediate Response Team (DIRT) was founded in January 2010 by Adam Marlatt shortly after the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Adam and fellow Marine Robert Sullivan have created a volunteer force dedicated to providing immediate assistance to victims of disasters worldwide, including Haiti.

We Advance founders Alison Thompson, humanitarian and disaster relief veteran, and “ER” star and women’s right activist Maria Bella work together on infusing hope into dire situations.

“We Advance focuses on gender-based violence, with an emphasis on educating and empowering rape victims and the children of Haiti, while Global Dirt’s mission is to buy an ambulance and mobilize a 911 rescue service that is very much needed,” Thompson said.

Montauk resident Melissa Berman, a “dedicated supporter” of the group, said she is lending a hand by helping to coordinate a volunteer crew.

“What makes We Advance special is that they are focused – their vision is clear: To advance the health, safety, and well-being of women in Haiti,” Berman said. “They start with the basics of health care and at the same time, educate and help empower the Haitian women to lead themselves.”

The group, Berman said, has built a “wonderful and well run” clinic “in the worst part of the worst slum in the western hemisphere.”

In addition, efforts include teaching Haitians English and other skills and advocating passionately alongside Haitian women against gender-based violence.

“In short, they get important stuff done, wisely, efficiently, and powerfully,” Berman said. “They are women, after all.”