CNN correspondent, Soledad O’Brien and husband, Brad Raymond hosted their 2nd Annual New Orleans In The Hamptons Benefit Gala last Friday in Bridgehampton, New York.

The event, sponsored by the Soledad O’Brien + Brad Raymond Foundation, raises money to aid 25 young women with the financial resources, and mentoring support. “We address all the obstacles in students’ lives and support them in every way that leads to a better future. Education is the great equalizer and the key to the American dream,” says O’Brien.

Guests at the event included June Ambrose, Kevin Liles, Russell Simmons, and Pharrell Williams—who serves as a member on the foundation’s board of directors.

O’Brien and Raymond started the foundation after witnessing the heart wrenching effects of Hurricane Katrina, and have since been dedicated to funding educational pursuits of young women.

For additional information on the Soledad O’Brien + Brad Raymond Foundation visit www.obrienraymondfoundation.org.

TAGS: Brad Raymond, Bridgehampton, charity, Erica Liles, Hurrican Katrina, June Ambrose, Kevin Liles, New Orleans, Pharrell Williams, Soledad O’Brien