A Shared Passion for Giving Back

Tommy Hilfiger and Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger share a passion for philanthropy and making the world a better place for future generations. They are both longtime supporters of amfAR and both have been honored for their generosity at amfAR Palm Beach, Tommy in 2022 and Dee in 2024.

Through the global PVH Cares program, the Tommy Hilfiger brand extends support to numerous national and international nonprofit organizations, including the Red Cross Netherlands, Foreseeable Future Foundation, Race to Erase MS, Humanitarian Resources International Foundation, and Fashion Minority Alliance. Through initiatives like the People’s Place Program and Tommy For Tomorrow, Hilfiger promotes inclusive, sustainable fashion with the vision of “Waste Nothing, Welcome All,” addressing social and environmental sustainability, diversity, and inclusivity in fashion and beyond.

Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger is an outspoken advocate for several Autism organizations and serves on the board of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Glam4Good, an empowering nonprofit that helps uplift those in need through fashion and beauty.

amfAR Senior Staff Writer Chael Needle asked Dee and Tommy what motivates them to give, and keep on giving.

Why is it important to each of you to support the work of amfAR?

Dee: Supporting amfAR is deeply personal to me. Witnessing the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS firsthand has fueled my belief in the vital role organizations like amfAR play in driving research, education, and advocacy.

Tommy: Each contribution, no matter the size, holds the potential to fund critical research and provide support to those affected by HIV/AIDS.

You both support a number of causes and charities in addition to amfAR. What keeps you motivated to keep giving back, especially when you’re already busy running successful businesses?

Dee: Knowing we can make a meaningful impact on others’ lives keeps us motivated. It’s about using our resources to create positive change. Whether it’s providing access to education, healthcare, or basic necessities, seeing the positive transformation firsthand reaffirms our commitment to giving back.

The fashion industry has lost so many creative people to AIDS and responded by launching some of the first awareness and fundraising campaigns. What are your thoughts as you reflect on that time and those early efforts?

Tommy: Reflecting on that time evokes both sadness for the loss of so many talented individuals and admiration for the industry’s swift and compassionate response. Those early awareness and fundraising campaigns were pivotal, not only in raising crucial funds but also in breaking the silence and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.

How optimistic are you that we’ll end the global HIV/AIDS epidemic in the foreseeable future?

Dee: While challenges remain, the collective efforts of organizations, governments, and communities worldwide are making significant strides towards ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. With continued dedication and collaboration, I believe we are on a promising path towards achieving this goal.

Is there anything else you would like to communicate to our readers?

Tommy: We would like to emphasize the importance of supporting organizations like amfAR. The work they do is crucial in the fight against HIV/AIDS. I urge readers to join us in standing with amfAR, because together, we can make a difference.

Click Here to read more from the July 2024 issue of amfAR INNOVATIONS.

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