Founded in 2011 by fashion executives Julie Gilhart, Kikka Hanazawa, Miki Higasa, and Tomoko Ogura in response to Japan’s devastating earthquake and tsunami, Fashion Girls for Humanity (FGfH) has grown into a force for global and local disaster relief. The nonprofit’s latest initiative supports recovery efforts following the Los Angeles wildfires that have damaged neighborhoods across Altadena and Pacific Palisades.
Hosted on Charitybuzz, the ongoing fundraising campaign directs all proceeds toward elementary schools and arts organizations in the affected regions. By concentrating on education and culture, FGfH aims to help communities rebuild infrastructure and restore creative spaces that foster resilience and expression. “We wanted to use fashion as a force for good and show how quickly our industry can act when people are in need,” said cofounder Julie Gilhart.
In 2014, the group was honored with the Asia Society’s Game Changers Award for leadership in arts, business, and education—a milestone that solidified its place at the intersection of fashion and philanthropy.
Now, with wildfires once again disrupting lives in California, FGfH continues to demonstrate how fashion’s global network can mobilize quickly and meaningfully. The campaign unites designers, stylists, and industry leaders under a shared cause: ensuring that communities most affected by disaster have the resources to heal and thrive.
Donations are currently being accepted through Charitybuzz, where bidders can support relief efforts while accessing exclusive fashion experiences and one-of-a-kind items donated by leading designers and creatives. From limited-edition pieces to mentorship sessions, the platform offers a tangible way for fashion enthusiasts to give back. Highlights include Lehmann Maupin Gallery’s First Choice VIP tickets to Art Basel Miami and a breakfast or lunch meeting with Shopbop’s Senior Fashion Director, Caroline Maguire.
