Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation Celebrates “Sweet 16” with Unconditional Love Gala in Bridgehampton

A private estate on Ocean Road in Bridgehampton set the scene for one of the summer’s most heartfelt—and star-studded—evenings. On July 2025, the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) hosted its 16th Annual Unconditional Love Gala, raising over $700,000 in support of the shelter’s mission to provide care, rehabilitation, and forever homes for homeless animals. This year’s gathering marked a milestone not only in celebration but in critical impact, as SASF prepares for a major facility renovation this fall.

Hosted by comedians Hannah Berner and Des Bishop, the gala welcomed an illustrious crowd of animal lovers, philanthropists, and public figures. Among the evening’s honorees was Alison Eastwood—actor, director, and founder of the Eastwood Ranch Foundation Animal Rescue—who was recognized as this year’s Animal Welfare Honoree.

The Compassion to Action Award was presented by Christie Brinkley to Jayni and Chevy Chase, applauding their longstanding commitment to animal advocacy. As Brinkley presented the award, the moment served as a powerful reminder of the depth of support behind SASF’s mission.

Entertainment for the evening was led by Soul System Orchestras, featuring Rob Affuso of Skid Row on drums. Guests enjoyed a high-energy musical performance and a luxury silent auction with rare and coveted offerings—from international trips and fine jewelry to a “Bruce Wayne” Rolex GMT Master II wristwatch.

As SASF approaches a temporary closure to facilitate essential renovations and upgrades to the shelter, the 2025 gala took on heightened significance. The funds raised will directly support operational continuity during the renovation period and ensure that animals continue receiving care and services without interruption.

Among the gala’s notable attendees were Beth Stern, Luann de Lesseps, Bo Dietl, Alexa Ray Joel, Jean Shafiroff, Jill Rapaport, and Leesa Rowland, further solidifying the event’s position as a cornerstone of philanthropic summer programming in the Hamptons.

Founded in 2010, SASF has become a leader among Long Island shelters, pioneering initiatives that range from public spay/neuter services to a low-cost veterinary clinic. The shelter operates as a no-kill, open-admission facility—rescuing animals not only from the local community but also from high-risk environments across the U.S. and Caribbean.

The foundation’s behavioral training program has become a national model for socializing and rehabilitating shelter dogs, with demonstrably increased adoption rates year after year.

With eyes set on the shelter’s upcoming renovation, SASF remains committed to its mission of providing second chances. For 16 years, the organization has stood as a pillar of compassion for the animals of 25 hamlets and villages in the greater Southampton area—and their efforts are poised to reach even further.