Weinbaum Set to Celebrate Guild's 50th Anniversary

A Q&A With the Fashion Industries Group’s ’Man of the Year’

The Fashion Industries Guild of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is very dear to its 2006 “Man of the Year” honoree. Kenny Weinbaum, who will accept the award Oct. 7 at the Regent Beverly Wilshire hotel in Beverly Hills, has led the FIG as president for 15 years.

The award, which is given in recognition of philanthropic efforts and dedication to the local garment industry, takes on added meaning this year, which marks the Guild’s 50th anniversary.

To help mark the milestone, the Guild has asked past honorees to participate in the evening. At press time, Steve Maiman, Moshe Tsabag, Barry Sachs, Jeff Marine, Dov Charney, Teddi Winograd, Corky Newman, Larry Hansel, Richard Clareman, Bobby Margolis, Jay Kester, Lonnie and Karen Kane, Bruce Corbin, Dorothy Schoelen and Jon Bernstein are confirmed to attend.

Proceeds from the Guild’s annual fundraising gala will benefit an innovative new pediatric care facility at the medical center. Founded in 1956, the FIG has raised approximately $20 million for special programs at Cedars-Sinai with the help of apparel industry professionals.

Recently, California Apparel News Manufacturing Editor Erin Barajas caught up with Weinbaum, vice president of sales and marketing for Chicago-based QST Industries Inc., to discuss his award and soft spot for the Guild, fund-raising in the fashion industry, and the FIG’s big plans for this year’s funds.

What does it mean to you, as president of the Fashion Industries Guild, to be honored as its “Man of the Year” on its 50thanniversary?

It is a very prestigious award hellip; especially since it is the 50th anniversary of this great group. It will be a very special moment to be sharing the stage with the past honorees and past presidents, who also have been very devoted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

How has fund-raising for the Guild changed over the 15 years of your tenure as president?

Fund-raising has always been a very difficult task—mainly because there are so many charities it becomes difficult to get your fair slice of the pie. But, with these obstacles and many others, the people of the garment community— through the Guild—have helped make Cedars one of the finest medical institutions in the world.

What pediatric program will the funds benefit?

Our newest project will be to help fund the Fashion Industries Pediatric Acute Care Unit at the hospital. This unit will provide care for children who are not sick enough to be in the Intensive Care Unit but are too sick to be on the regular hospital floor. These children will receive advanced medical and nursing care. Their families will be able to receive the information so necessary to understanding what is happening to their children.

How will the Guild mark its anniversary? Any special plans?

This will be a very special night. We are bringing back some of the great past honorees and past presidents to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Fashion Industries Guild.

Are you involved with any other charities?

I have been involved with many other charities, but of course being president of the FIG and being named “Man of the Year” make this charity very special.

Why is philanthropy important to you?

Philanthropy is a big part of my life. The principle or practice of unselfish concern for the welfare of others is the greatest feeling there is.

Do you involve QST employees in your charitable work?

Yes, I do involve them in the Fashion Industries Guild. Several have served on the board of the FIG.

For ticket information, call Shonya Stein at (310) 860-7560.