Best Buddies Hamptons Gala

I was so bummed that I missed last night's Best Buddies Hamptons Gala at the home of Anne Hearst and Jay McInerney in Watermill.  Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant, international organization that has grown from one original chapter to more than 1,400 middle school, high school, and college campuses worldwide. Best Buddies now operates accredited programs in 40 countries worldwide.  As a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, and make lifelong friendships.

Best Buddies International Board Member Tatiana S. Platt and husband Campion Platt join the McInerney’s as Co-Chairs for a spectacular gala supporting people with intellectual disabilities around the world who are routinely misjudged and ignored. The evening featured the festive summer theme, “When in Rio…,” and will commence with a cocktail reception, to be followed by a formal dinner. Finally, there will be a live auction, a musical presentation by Latin performers Ritmo, and dancing under the stars.

The Best Buddies Hamptons Beach Bash Benefit Committee includes Debbie Bancroft, Somers Farkas, Nicole Miller, Nazy Nazhand, Patty Raynes and Leslie Stevens. In addition to the hosts and the Benefit Committee, several other notable figures are expected to attend, such as: Honorary Gala Co-Chairs Alina and Anthony Kennedy Shriver; Georgina Bloomberg; Nacho Figueras; New York artist Hunt Slonem; Countess Luann de Lesseps; Michael Clinton; Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos; Diandra Douglas; Ed Hayes; Valesca Guerrand Hermes; Kim Heirston; Becca Cason Thrash; and Nina Griscom.

The Best Buddies Hamptons Beach Bash is sponsored by The Venetian Foundation, DPS Sporting Club Development, Hearst Corporation, UBS, Campion A. Platt Architect, P.C., Fame Game, Nicole Miller, Veuve Cliquot and Hamptons Magazine.