Huge-Hearted Crowd Gathers 'For The Love Of Animals': Photos

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — Devoted animal advocates and activists celebrated under a tent at a private home in Water Mill to benefit RSVP Inc., or Responsible Solutions for Valued Pets.

The group held its first annual "For the Love of Animals" summer Hamptons benefit. Co-hosts Jennifer Mabley Handler, Austin Handler, of Mabley Handler Interior Design, and Cary Mabley presented the "Animal Activist Award" to Jill Rappaport for her tireless work on behalf of animals.

Rappaport played auctioneer with a rare signed bottle of Christie Brinkley's Bellissima Prosecco. RSVP President Lillian Lennon and Outreach Canine Coordinator Kelly Keenan spoke of their experience with RSVP Inc. A silent auction, live auction featuring guest auctioneer, Timothy Reed, food, drink and music by the Lynn Blue Band rounded out the fun.

Photos by Richard Lewin. Reporting by Richard Lewin.