Kimora Lee Simmons Donates Lots of Money During the 15th Annual Art for Life Celebration

It’s not exactly a secret that the Hamptons is the playground of the wealthy and tastemakers, so its not entirely surprising that New York City denizens spend their free weekends on the island.

This weekend was particularly busy for the well-heeled set. Activities included Super Saturday, a summer camp courtesy of Disaranno, a white party to fete Laura Prepon‘s Bella Magazine cover (stay tuned for official recaps on all mentioned events), and naturally lots of fancy galas. One, such gala, the ART FOR LIFE hosted by Russell and Danny Simmons, a Hampton staple celebrated its 15 year with lots of notables including a performance from Naughty by Nature.

The BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Gin sponsored event drew a impressive list of attendees such as Star Jones, Doug E. Fresh, Rick Ross, Reverend Al Sharpton, Michael Bloomberg, Gayle King, Fab Five Freddy, Tobias Sorensen, Niykee Heaton, Soledad O’Brien, Angela Simmons, JoJo Simmons, Bevy Smith,  Kurtis Blow, DJ Kiss, Miss Universe Gabriela Isler and Miss USA Nia Sanchez. All totaled, 750 supporters descended to the Fairview Farms in Watermill, NY for an evening of charity, good company, and great food and naturally well-crafted cocktails featuring BOMBAY SAPPHIRE including summer favorites like the Sapphire Peppered Peach-Tea Collins, and Art Traction.

The evening began with a cocktail reception then guests were ushered to a dinner. At the dinner, the night’s emcee Soledad O’Brien feted the honorary chairs  Star Jones and Michael R. Bloomberg, Valentino D. Carlotti, Kimora Lee Simmons for their career achievements and philanthropic work. Additionally the night’s host Russel Simmons, announced that ex-wife Kimora Lee, donated a $1 million dollars to benefit RUSH Teens, a newly launched program.  All totaled the event raised an impressive $2.3 million dollars. “Art For Life is always a very special night, but this year’s event was truly the best ever,” Russell Simmons said. “Being able to announce such a significant gift from Kimora and having a great old-school concert too, our guests left the gala not only inspired but seriously entertained.” The night concluded with tunes of famed Doug E. Fresh and Kurtis Blow.

Proceeds from the evening will benefit the RUSH Philanthropic Arts Foundation signature arts education and gallery programs, directly serving over 3,000 inner-city youth each year.