Heidi Klum, Naomi Campbell and more come out for amFAR in New York

The world of fashion and philanthropy joined forces in New York on Wednesday (February 11) to raise money for amfAR's fight against AIDS.

This year at the annual gala the foundation honored entertainer Harry Belafonte, actress Rosairo Dawson, and fashion photographer Patrick Demarchelier.

amfAR's board chair and fashion designer Kenneth Cole was pleased to be able to pay tribute to his friend.

"Harry is a very dear friend and he's been on the board of amfAR for some time. And he's truly been a pioneer on so many important movements over the years. From the civil rights movement to the crusade to find a cure for HIV/AIDS," said Cole.

Dawson, who used the night to celebrate her mother's birthday, said the honor meant a lot to her: "The world, tremendously so."

The red carpet at the event was filled with super models from present to past including Kendall Jenner and Karlie Kloss to Heidi Klum, Naomi Campbell and Iman.

The veteran model Iman sang the praises of amfAR and its steadfast commitment to fight HIV/AIDS.

"For a disease that a lot of people think it's gone they have been the one, singularly, the only people who have been there from day one. And year in, day out they stay on the cause, that's why."

Campbell's involvement with amfAR goes back nearly 20 years.

"I've been supportive since I think 1993 or 1994."

Entourage actor Jeremy Piven was part of the night's program and said he is honored to help raise awareness.

"I was lucky enough to be a part of it in Milan and for some reason the asked me back, I don't know why. It was a mistake, I think they wanted Jeremy Irons and I just took the invite - any Jeremy, I'll come."

Also in attendance were Brooke Shields, artist Marina Abramovic and actress Michelle Rodriguez.

"People come here, they get dressed up they look good and at the end of the day they also know that they are doing good. And they feel good about having been part of something important," said Cole.

Since its founding, amfAR has raised close to $400 million for HIV/AIDS research and efforts to find a cure. — Reuters