Star-Studded Charity Gala Hosted by Jamie Gold and Bruce Buffer Raises Over $250,000 for Special Needs Children
The Variety Children’s Charity of Southern California recently hosted its 14th consecutive annual poker event at the iconic Paramount Pictures studio in Los Angeles. Co-hosted by 2006 WSOP Main Event champion Jamie Gold and legendary UFC announcer Bruce Buffer, who kicked off the tournaments with his signature “It’s time!” call, the invite-only gala brought in more than $250,000 to support children with disabilities, special needs, and developmental challenges.
A Night of High-Stakes Action and Community Impact
The sold-out, 800-guest event featured a catered meal, a cash bar, auxiliary casino games, and dual high-stakes and low-stakes poker tournaments. Attendees included notable poker personalities such as Michael Mizrachi, along with Hustler Casino Live figures Ryan Feldman and Kyle “Raver Poker” Ravreby, alongside a vibrant crowd of film and television stars.
One of the most poignant moments of the evening occurred when Jamie Gold presented six specially adapted bikes to local children. Funded through event donations, these adaptive bicycles provide recipients with mobility, independence, confidence, and the simple joy of riding alongside family and friends.
Supported by 50 major corporate sponsors, including industry giants like Paramount, Disney, Universal, MGM, Regal, and Dolby, the event has established itself as a premier July staple in Los Angeles. The celebrity-filled room featured recognizable names such as Peter Facinelli, Billy Burke, Mekhi Pfifer, Ray J, Princess Love, Nick Gonzales, Roger Cross, and Tony Dennison.
Global Impact of Variety
Rated as a top-tier charity for effective giving on Charity Navigator, Variety ensures that 85% of all proceeds go directly to families in need. Globally, the organization has delivered over $2 billion over the years through more than 300 programs across 20 countries, providing essential medical care, educational opportunities, and mobility equipment to over 45 million children.
