REFORM Alliance’s Casino Night Event Raises $24 Million for Criminal Justice Reform
Last night, REFORM Alliance hosted its inaugural Casino Night Event at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, raising an impressive $24 million to support criminal justice reform. The exclusive, black-tie gathering was attended by over 250 VIPs and featured key figures in the criminal justice reform movement, including co-chairs Michael Rubin, Meek Mill, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, and emcee Kevin Hart.
The event served to highlight the work of REFORM Alliance, which advocates for transforming the nation’s probation and parole system to provide better opportunities for nearly 4 million individuals, rather than pushing them back into the prison system.
Impactful Stories and Support for REFORM’s Mission
The evening also highlighted the significant strides REFORM has made since its inception over four years ago. REFORM’s efforts to change broken probation and parole policies were brought to life through compelling stories shared by three individuals directly impacted by the system: Pam Sedia, James Severe, and Marcella Soto. Their stories were featured via video at the event, showcasing the challenges individuals face and the positive impact of bipartisan reform laws passed across the country.
A Night of Entertainment and Philanthropy
Guests participated in a series of exciting activities throughout the night, including a blackjack tournament, a dinner program, and a live auction. High-profile attendees such as Tom Brady, Kim Kardashian, Travis Scott, Matthew McConaughey, and many others from sports, entertainment, and business, showed their support for REFORM’s cause. A highlight of the evening was the final blackjack hand, played on-stage, which saw a $1 million prize awarded to Andrew Goldberg, managing partner of TAO Group. He generously donated $750,000 of his winnings back to REFORM to further support its efforts.
Acknowledging REFORM’s Legislative Success
During the dinner program, REFORM’s CEO, Robert Rooks, and Chief Advocacy and Operations Officer, Jessica Jackson, expressed gratitude to the attendees for their participation in addressing one of the most pressing social issues of our time. They highlighted how REFORM’s focus on public safety solutions has been instrumental in passing 17 bipartisan bills across 11 states. These laws have opened up pathways for nearly 700,000 people to transition out of the justice system and into stable, productive lives. Additionally, REFORM hosts job fairs and partners with organizations that provide essential services to those impacted by the criminal justice system.
A Thrilling Auction and Exclusive Performances
The live auction was a major success, raising $7.8 million through the sale of exclusive items donated by celebrities and artists like Tom Brady, George Condo, Rashid Johnson, and JAY-Z. One of the standout items was an original painting by George Condo, which sparked a bidding war between Kim Kardashian and Tom Brady. Other auction items included a historic timepiece owned by Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter. Following the auction, the after-party at Ocean’s Sportsbook, The Gallery, featured a full D’USSE bar takeover, specialty cocktails, and surprise performances by Travis Scott, Meek Mill, Lil Baby, Fat Joe, Lil Durk, Quavo, and more.
Supporting the Continued Work of REFORM Alliance
REMARKABLY, less than 0.01% of philanthropic giving is directed toward criminal justice reform. However, thanks to REFORM’s commitment to covering all administrative costs through its board, 100% of the evening’s proceeds will directly fund the organization’s work. This includes bolstering efforts to change laws, expanding grassroots operations in more states, supporting the implementation of recently passed laws, and funding job fairs and community-based organizations that assist individuals in transitioning from incarceration to stable life.
This extraordinary event served as a reminder of how powerful philanthropic giving can be when it is directed toward creating lasting change in the criminal justice system. REFORM Alliance continues to work tirelessly to ensure that millions of individuals on probation or parole have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
