Camp has been a big topic this Spring — being the theme of The Costume Institute’s Met exhibition — but one legendary designer knows more about camp than we ever suspected. Last night, Tommy Hilfiger was honored by The Fresh Air Fund at their annual Spring Benefit to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Camp Tommy, the other kind of camp. For those unfamiliar, Camp Tommy is the Fund’s camp for boys, ages 13 to 15, located in Fishkill, New York. For the past two decades, thanks to the incredible support of Hilfiger, the camp has welcomed more than 10,000 teenage boys who come from low-income communities. It gives them the normal camp experience while creating a brotherhood and sense of community.
CBS This Morning host Gayle King hosted the dinner, which welcomed over 600 guests such as William Lauder, Dee Hilfiger, Kris Jenner, Corey Gamble, June Ambrose, Georgina Bloomberg, and Mickey Boardman. Even the decor got into the spirit of the night with table centerpieces featuring camp essentials such as flashlights, bandanas, and flags.
Iman, wearing Tommy X Zendya, introduced Hilfiger, noting that they’ve known each other for 25 years and the only time she and her late husband David Bowie appeared in a campaign together, it was for him. “When my husband passed away [Tommy] was a very close and comforting person to be with,” she said. “He also mentored me in business without me asking and kept the door open. He even helped me navigate my 18-year-old daughter, and we all know how difficult that is. He has tirelessly supported not just young people, but adults.”
Tommy Hilfiger (Jenna Bascom Photography)
Hilfiger then took to the stage to honor the program and alumni. “Giving back has always been fundamental to me,” he said. “Working with The Fresh Air Fund and Camp Tommy, I’m providing thousands of kids from underprivileged neighborhoods and backgrounds to allow them to go to summer camp each year, which has been one of my proudest accomplishments. These sessions not only offer them a chance to be amidst nature and enjoy physical and creative activities, but they also teach them important life building lessons, real life lessons. Hearing the young alumni mentors and counselors share their experience is humbling and fills me with a lot of gratitude. Tommy Cares and the foundation PVH has set up makes me very proud.”
Desert was served after Tommy’s inspiring speech. On the menu? That camp staple s’mores, of course. The event raised close to $1.9 million for The Fresh Air Fund.
-
- Tommy Hilfiger, Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger and William P. Lauder (Patrick McMulllan)
