East Hampton, NY — August 15, 2025 Philanthropy, culture, and star power converged in East Hampton as fashion icon Donna Karan and acclaimed actor Alec Baldwin welcomed guests to Karan’s elegant waterfront home for a charity fundraiser in support of Wings Over Haiti, a Sag Harbor-based nonprofit dedicated to providing education and nourishment for children in Haiti.
A Night of Elegance and Purpose
The evening began poolside at one of Karan’s homes, where attendees gathered for cocktails in the garden before moving to an outdoor dinner prepared by Karan’s personal chef. Guests included leaders from the arts, philanthropy, and business communities, all united by a shared commitment to support the Wings Over Haiti School.
Host Arthur Bijur opened the program, introducing Donna Karan, Jonathan Glynn, the nonprofit’s founder and director, and Magalie Theodore, a driving force behind the organization. Karan expressed her love for Haiti and underscored the importance of education in transforming lives, while Theodore warmly thanked guests for their steadfast support.
“Education changes lives,” Karan told the crowd. “Supporting Wings Over Haiti ensures that children have the resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive.”
The Mission Behind Wings Over Haiti
Founded by Glynn in the aftermath of Haiti’s devastating 2010 earthquake, Wings Over Haiti has grown into a thriving school that currently serves 126 students. With twelve classrooms nearing completion, the school provides both daily meals and education to children in need.
“This evening reflects the generosity of a community committed to making a real difference,” Glynn said. “The children of Haiti deserve hope and opportunity, and Wings Over Haiti is proud to provide that foundation.”
Music and Entertainment
The tone of the night shifted into celebration when renowned Haitian musician Clinton Benoit took the stage with a three-song performance that electrified the crowd and showcased Haiti’s cultural richness. Guests later moved to Karan’s primary residence, where Haitian American comedian TJ provided lively entertainment, filling the evening with laughter.
A moving video presentation followed, documenting the struggles many Haitian children face in their daily pursuit of education, some walking miles each day to reach the classroom. The footage brought a somber reminder of the urgency behind the fundraiser’s mission.
Celebrity Leadership and Generosity
Karan returned to the stage to pledge a significant donation, inspiring guests to follow suit. Baldwin, blending humor with heartfelt appeals, led a spirited round of pledges and matching donations. He shared personal reflections and contributed generously himself, encouraging others to meet his commitment.
A Community United for Haiti
As the evening came to a close, guests mingled poolside under the stars while the fundraising video replayed. The event not only raised substantial funds for the Wings Over Haiti School but also reinforced a shared sense of compassion and community.
The East Hampton Wings Over Haiti Fundraising Event was more than a dinner; it was a call to action. With the combined efforts of designers, actors, comedians, musicians, and philanthropists, the night underscored the power of collective generosity in helping build a brighter future for Haiti’s children.
By the Midtown Times Editorial Board
