Win Big for Reform: Join the High-Stakes Blackjack Tournament at Ocean Casino to Raise Millions for Criminal Justice Reform

• The Reform Alliance held its Casino Night & Gala in Atlantic City.
• The star-studded event raised around $20 million for criminal justice reform.

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The second Reform Alliance Casino Night & Gala in Atlantic City was once again a riveting success, blending high-stakes excitement with a meaningful mission. Amidst the glamour of the evening, guests competed in a high-energy blackjack tournament, adding a thrilling layer of competition to the festivities. This year, the event attracted numerous celebrities and supporters who gathered not just for the games, but to remain united in their aim to drive positive change in the criminal justice system.

The biennial flagship fundraising event, held at Ocean Casino Resort, focused on transforming probation and parole systems across America. Founded by a distinguished group of philanthropists including Jay-Z, Meek Mill, Robert Kraft, and Michael Rubin in 2019, the Reform Alliance aims to refurbish legislation related to criminal justice.

During this event, the Reform Alliance reported raising approximately $20 million, surpassing expectations. The funds will support their “Work Matters” initiative, which aids individuals with prior legal issues to reconnect with the workforce and improve their societal integration.

“Our second Reform Alliance Casino Night at Ocean Casino Resort was truly a night to remember. The millions raised will support our ‘Work Matters’ initiative and will continue to fuel groups working every day to build safer communities through our community grants program,” the organisation stated.

Star-Studded Gala

The gala was packed with prominent figures, including Beyonce, Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, Travis Scott, DJ Khaled, Cameron Diaz, Ne-Yo, and Tiffany Haddish. Celebrities competed in a high-stakes blackjack tournament, adding excitement to the night.

James Severe, who shared his personal experiences with the flawed probation system, captivated the audience. His story highlighted the challenges faced by many impacted by the system and the ways Reform has supported individuals seeking stability.

“There wasn’t a dry eye in the house after James Severe shared how a technical violation almost cost him his future — and how after benefitting from a law Reform passed — he has rebuilt his life as a TV and film coordinator at RocNation, and most importantly, as a dad to his two-year-old son,” the organisation explained.

Auction Items

Besides the casino revenues, the gala also featured an exclusive auction that contributed significantly to the total raised. Notable auction items included:

• A round of golf with Tom Brady for $1.8 million at Michael Jordan’s private course in Florida.
• A George Condo painting purchased for $3.4 million.
• A private concert by Megan Thee Stallion went for $600,000.
• A Rashid Johnson artwork piece that fetched $1.8 million.

The wide range of auction items appealed to various tastes and helped propel the fundraising efforts, showcasing the community’s commitment to the cause.