The Annual Fundraiser Event on September 13th Returns to Wynn Las Vegas, Bringing Together Poker Pros and Supporters to Raise Funds to Benefit Underserved Communities in South Los Angeles
LAS VEGAS, NV (August 12, 2024) – NBA Icon Russell Westbrook and the Why Not? Foundation (WNF) has partnered with the World Poker Tour® Foundation for its 4th Annual Poker Night fundraiser, hosted by Russell and Nina Westbrook. Taking place Friday, September 13th, at the renowned Intrigue Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas, this year’s Poker Night promises an unforgettable evening of upscale entertainment as supporters are invited to participate in a VIP poker experience featuring world-class poker players and live commentary and analysis from poker industry standout and WPT® Commentator, Champion and WSOP bracelet winner, Tony Dunst. Celebrated entertainment and poker reporter Drea Renee will also set the atmosphere for the evening as host alongside Dunst.
The Why Not? Foundation Poker Night has become a marquee event for WNF, raising essential funds to support the foundation’s mission of creating pathways of empowerment for underserved populations in South Los Angeles. To date, the event has generated over $1 million, with all proceeds supporting WNF’s educational, workforce development, and mental health and wellness initiatives. Recent notable achievements include
- The opening of Westbrook Academy, which now serves over 400 middle and high school students in South LA
- An annual career fair in partnership with LeadersUp
- Announcing the Changing Lives from Scratch Fund in partnership with the Little Kitchen Academy
- And a two-day basketball intensive camp hosted by Russell Westbrook, benefiting over 100 youth in South LA
- The launch of WNF’s annual Women’s History Month brunch in partnership with Bene™ by Nina which fosters connections among women leaders in mental health and wellness
“We are thrilled to take this event to the next level, partnering with the World Poker Tour to deliver an extraordinary experience for our supporters,” said Russell Westbrook, NBA superstar and founder of the Why Not? Foundation. “The tournament offers a unique opportunity to play alongside top poker professionals while supporting our ongoing efforts to make a significant impact in the Los Angeles community.”
“We are honored to work with Why Not? Foundation in their fundraising efforts to elevate the underserved populations of South Los Angeles,” said WPT CEO Adam Pliska. “Russell Westbrook’s vision for Why Not? is perfectly aligned with the mission of the WPT Foundation.”
A $7,500 donation gains access to the tournament with a guest, a one-night stay at the Wynn Las Vegas on September 13th, and admittance to the cocktail after-party for both the poker player and their guest. The Why Not? Foundation also invites attendees not interested in playing poker at a special rate of $1200 for the evening. In addition to gaining access to the tournament, non-poker players can look forward to an array of experiences and poker lessons for beginners.
For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please contact info@whynotfoundation.org.
About the Russell Westbrook Why Not? Foundation
Founded in 2012, the Russell Westbrook Why Not? Foundation aims to create pathways of empowerment for underserved populations. The foundation is committed to the perseverance of underserved communities by implementing structured educational opportunities, workforce development, and accessible mental health resources. With “Why Not?” being a personal ignition for Russell Westbrook, the foundation looks to instill this mindset in the youth while offering resources to set children and their communities up for continued success. For more information, please visit: whynotfoundation.org.
About the World Poker Tour®
World Poker Tour® (WPT®) is the premier name in internationally televised gaming and entertainment with brand presence in land-based tournaments, television, online, and mobile. WPT has hosted live poker tournaments in 48 countries, drawn more than 400,000 total entries, and awarded more than $1.5 billion in prize money. Leading innovation in the sport of poker since 2002, WPT ignited the global poker boom with the creation of a unique television show, which has broadcast globally in more than 150 countries and territories, and is currently producing its 22nd season, which airs on Bally Sports in the United States. Season XXII of WPT is sponsored by ClubWPT.com. ClubWPT.com is a unique online membership site that offers inside access to the WPT, as well as a sweepstakes-based poker club available in 43 states and territories across the United States, Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom. WPT also participates in strategic brand license, partnership, and sponsorship opportunities.
In 2012, the WPT Foundation was launched, which has gone on to raise over $50 million through 12 years and 50 events. This unprecedented philanthropic effort is dedicated to improving our planet by supporting key charities in regards to human rights, education, world hunger and the environment. For more information, go to WPT.com.