It’s been an atypical events season, as non-profit organizations were up against the challenges of fluctuating pandemic protocols. Keeping up-to-date on briefings, while setting realistic expectations, proved to be a challenge, but one worth navigating. Local charities were able to pivot in order to keep guests safe, while raising much-needed funds.
The South Fork Natural History Museum (SOFO) remained diligent during the weeks preceding their gala, as attendees were advised through both invitations and email blasts that proof of vaccination or negative Covid-19 tests would be required upon arrival. To help expedite the check-in process on the day of, guests were provided the option to upload their vaccine cards directly onto a site.
“From the moment we decided to host our benefit, we made the safety of all of our guests, staff, and volunteers a priority. Our guests were delighted to know that their well-being was of utmost importance to us, and our turnout was wonderful,” said Diana Aceti, SOFO’s director of development.
The annual Hamptons Happening remained on par with previous years, as the event raised over $400,000 for cancer research. Wylie Tene, director of marketing and communications for the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, explained, “We were concerned that Covid-19 would decrease attendance. But, as the event approached, we heard from many attendees that they were excited to be attending again.”
Despite the concerns over attendance, and the logistical complications, confidence regarding overall turnout remained high.
The Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation’s Unconditional Love Gala intentionally undersold tickets so that guests could feel properly spaced from one another. Kate McEntee, director of animal relations at SASF noted, “Guests were enthusiastic as our dogs made their way to the stage for a dog parade … and we have been setting up official meet and greets at the shelter with those who met pets they want to adopt.”
It was a season of adaption as well as adoption. As part of its Forever Home campaign the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF) campus has been under construction, forcing the organization to forego a traditional tented event. In turn, board members and donors alternatively hosted smaller viewing parties and the annual Bow Wow Meow Ball set a new record for net income raised.
Kristina Curatolo, chief development officer at ARF said, “We’re overwhelmed by the generosity of this community, its love for ARF, and the thousands of animals saved by our work.”
Similarly, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s 63rd annual Summer Party “Gala In Our Gardens,” was held with a “host at home” format again this year, with each event catered by Elegant Affairs and delivered to each host’s door.
Throughout it all, the Hamptons community continues to come together.
Julie Ratner, co-founder and chairwoman of The Ellen Hermanson Foundation observed, “My sense is that there is more kindness in the air. I have noticed that people seem to try to comfort and encourage each other as they navigate the challenges of living with Covid.”
While the 26th Annual Ellen’s Run surpassed predictions, the organization’s gala, held at the tail end of summer, migrated from an indoor event to an outdoor soirée hosted by the Hampton Racquet Club. Ratner expressed ahead of the event, “We are doing everything we can to make sure our Back in Black Benefit reassures our guests that it is safe to come out and have a good time while supporting an important cause.”
Funds from annual summer benefits on the East End, most of which did not happen or happened virtually in 2020, oftentimes make up a large portion of each local non-profit’s year-round operating budget.
In lieu of its SummerFest Gala altogether, the Southampton Arts Center opted for smaller events throughout the season to ensure the safety of guests and provide a more intimate setting.
“These smaller events have actually proven to be quite the success with guests having a great time while also feeling safe,” Tom Dunn, executive director of SAC, said. “We have been incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated and generous group of individuals that have long supported our institution and continue to do so.”
LongHouse’s SAY YES gala curated a new type of experience as musicians were situated throughout its 16-acre property, foregoing a sit-down dinner entirely as done in previous years. “Many people wanted to be outdoors and not seated at a table. The energy was amazing and the whole vibe felt over the top in the most fun way,” said Matko Tomicic, the LongHouse executive director.
The Parrish Art Museum and Watermill Center both spread out their annual summer events so that they could host multiple events with smaller groups.
The reimagined annual event at the Parrish Art Museum featured three events over three days: a dance party, dinner and cocktails, and a family party and raised over $1 million for the museum.
The Watermill Center held CROSSROADS, a summer festival as a week-long gathering to consider the meaning of ritual, healing, and hope at this moment in time, led by Carrie Mae Weems, in collaboration with Robert Wilson.
Guild Hall celebrated its 90th anniversary with cocktails on the water and dinner under an open-air tent. The event raised over $800,000 in support of Guild Hall’s year-round interdisciplinary programs.