By Daniel Larios
Staff Writer

April 23, 2014 -- More than 30 celebrities are expected to attend the Santa Monica Boys and Girls Club's Charity Poker Tournament Thursday.

Funds raised at the Texas Hold'em-style celebrity tournament -- part of the organization's yearlong 70th anniversary celebration -- will go towards improving and expanding the Boys and Girls Club's award-winning programs and services that reach approximately 8,000 children across 109 zip codes, according to officials.

“Our mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential,” says Janis Morse, the organization's director of Development. “We are excited to announce that we have expanded to 11 sites in and around Santa Monica, and are reaching even more underserved youth.”

Attending the event, held at the Lexus Santa Monica showroom on 1501 Santa Monica Boulevard, will be David Allen Grier, Carl Weathers, Tito Ortiz, Joey Fatone, Mekhi Phifer, Gilles Marini, Shanna Moakler, Estella Warren, Bobby Brown and others.

“More than 200 guests are expected including celebrities, VIPs, trend-setting young professionals and 'Silicon Beach' entrepreneurs," said officials.
Have a good time while advancing a good cause, officials said.

“Our programs span across education, leadership, recreation & more,” officials said. “The Club operates with the objective of serving children from all backgrounds, regardless of economic circumstances -- ensuring that youth ages 6 to 18 have a safe & nurturing environment to develop socially, succeed in school, stay physically active & prepare for positive futures.”

In addition to mingling with celebrities, tournament players have the chance to win a six-night stay at the Hut Pointe Inn in the Bahamas, a stay at La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club with dinner at the award-winning Marine Room and a 55" High Definition Television.

Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on valuable auction items.  

There will be music by DJ doesha and cocktails from the Venice Beer Company, Ton Benito Tequila and Mangria, comedian and podcaster Adam Carolla’s company.

Hors d'oeuvres will be provided Santa Monica restaurant Tinga. Red carpet arrival/registration begins at 6:30 p.m. Poker begins at 8pm sharp, officials said.

Tickets are available on a first come first served basis here. 

For more information, contact Susan Emmer, Director of Marketing at (310) 361-8500 or through email at susan@smbgx.org. For more information on the programs and events hosted by the Santa Monica Boys and Girls Club, visit www.smbgc.org, or follow on Facebook at facebook.com/smbgcfan and Twitter at twitter.com/SMBGC.