Earlier this month, supporters gathered at the home of After-School All-Stars founder Arnold Schwarzenegger for the 13th Annual Arnold Schwarzenegger–Westime Charity Night, co-hosted by Governor Schwarzenegger and John Simonian of Westime. Together, they helped make history, raising a record-breaking $9.75 million in support of ASAS students nationwide!
This remarkable milestone represents so much more than a number. It is an investment in the futures of the nearly 150,000 students we serve nationwide, helping us continue providing free after-school programs where young people can discover their interests, build confidence, and pursue their goals. That purpose remained at the heart of the evening.
“At After-School All-Stars, our mission is simple: to help kids succeed in school and in life. But when you ask our students what they love most about ASAS, they rarely mention a specific program or activity. Instead, they talk about the staff member who made a difference in their lives. Because at ASAS, kids may come for the programs, but they stay for the people.” —Ben Paul, ASAS CEO
The evening featured lively line dancing, performances by two-time Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Divas, a beautiful rendition of the national anthem by young mariachi sensation Mateo Lopez, and soulful blues to close out the night. Guests also enjoyed new experiences, including custom Western hats, bolo ties, and traditional tintype portraits to take home as keepsakes.
The live auction was made possible by the incredible generosity of individuals, artists, and partners who contributed one-of-a-kind items and experiences in support of our students. With Milan Carter serving as emcee and Chuck Dukas leading the bidding as auctioneer, the evening featured contributions from Richard Mille, MANSORY, Ryan Garcia, Billy Lucas, and Daniel Marshall. We are equally grateful to artists Nick Moss, Lotte Zhang, Wes Lang, and Hiro Yamagata, who donated original works of art. Each of these contributions helped make the evening’s record-breaking success possible, and we are deeply appreciative of the generosity and enthusiasm behind them.
Guests were also treated to an exceptional dining experience by Wolfgang Puck Catering, thanks to Chef Eric Klein, Chef Garry Larduinat, and their talented team. We were delighted to welcome back TOMA, generously sharing their signature empanadas throughout the evening.
As we reflect on another Charity Night, what stays with us most is just how many people are cheering on our All-Stars. Seeing that enthusiasm and dedication firsthand is a reminder of how much our students mean to this incredible community.
We are especially grateful to our hosts, Arnold Schwarzenegger and John Simonian, for their generosity and longstanding commitment. To everyone who attended, contributed, or helped bring this record-breaking evening to life, thank you.
While Charity Night may be over, our work continues every afternoon at more than 750 schools and community sites nationwide, where students receive academic support, build friendships, and connect with caring adults. Thanks to supporters like you, these programs remain free and accessible to the students and families who count on them.
