by Katie Kornfield

City of Hope’s Apparel Industries Group recently honored a fashion industry leader — and garnered $1 million for the institution’s research and treatment programs.

Gerard Guez (Photo by Michael Kovac, Wire Image)

Gerard Guez, chair of apparel company Sunrise Brands, received The Spirit of Life® Award at the industry group’s annual gala in West Hollywood, Calif. The award is City of Hope’s highest philanthropic honor and recognized Guez for his outstanding contributions to City of Hope as well as his business leadership and philanthropic achievements.

“I’m proud to continue Sunrise Brands’ support of City of Hope, an organization that has been making a difference in the lives of patients and communities everywhere for nearly 100 years,” said Guez. “It is an honor to receive The Spirit of Life Award and be recognized by my industry peers who believe in City of Hope’s commitment to the research and treatment of life-threatening diseases.”

Under his guidance, Sunrise subsidiaries have produced premium denim and apparel with labels such as Seven7 Jeans, American Rag, Dylan George, Superdry and ReRock Jeans.

The Apparel Industries Group presented the award to Guez on Nov. 20, 2011. The group was created in 1995 through the merger of two of City of Hope’s oldest and most dedicated auxiliaries — The Merchants Club and Professions and Finance Associates. The union brought together leaders from all facets of the apparel industry that are committed to fighting cancer and other life-threatening diseases. To date, the group has raised more than $40 million for City of Hope.