Paris Hilton begins post-jail philanthropy

LOS ANGELES, July 24 (UPI) -- Socialite Paris Hilton is making good on her promise of doing good, turning out for a Los Angeles fundraising gala for children with spinal cord injuries.

"It's a great organization," Hilton told People magazine during Life Rolls On Foundation's annual "Night By the Ocean" auction. "It gives people hope and I'm really happy to be here to support Jesse."

Hilton's friend Jesse Billauer, a former pro surfer who is now paralyzed, founded Life Rolls On. The hotel heiress bid on and won a $17,500 surfing lesson with Billauer and actor Adam Sandler.

Even the dress Hilton wore to Sunday's event was philanthropic in a sense. The frock was created by Jonathan Bash, a 19-year old fashion student she met when he helped pump her gas.

"He said he loved me and my style and showed me 30 dresses he designed just for me. I was amazed by how incredibly talented he was," Hilton told People.