Second annual fundraiser takes place Oct 1st in Las Vegas
The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation has announced details for The Event, its second annual fundraising gala presented by Pepsi Stronger Together scheduled for October 1st at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The evening will feature an all-star lineup from the worlds of music and comedy, including performances from multiple GRAMMY award-winning artists Maroon 5; CMA’s 2020 Female Artist of the Year Maren Morris; and Emmy award-winning comedian John Mulaney — with more performers to be announced in the coming weeks.
Established by four-time NBA champion Shaquille O’Neal, The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation’s mission is to create pathways for underserved youth to help them achieve their full potential. In doing so, it has partnered with two organizations close to Shaquille’s heart — Boys & Girls Clubs and Communities in Schools. The Event serves as the primary fundraiser for The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation.
Concert tickets ranging from $50 to $250 are available to the public and are on sale now via AXS.com. The evening will also include a private cocktail reception, dinner, and live auction followed by the public performance. Table sponsorships for the private event range from $10,000 to $75,000.
“Last year’s Event was a lifetime highlight for me, which is saying something,” O’Neal professes. “We set the bar high but we’re looking forward to an even bigger night this year: more guests, more acts, more passion for positive change. Not only do we have some of the best names in music again, but we’re also adding comedy. I’m especially proud of how accessible The Event is, with concert tickets starting at just $50. The evening is about people — from everyday fans to sports and entertainment stars to corporate CEOs — coming together to make a difference in kids’ lives.”
The Foundation focuses on serving children in Las Vegas and Atlanta. Last year, it announced the opening of the Shaquille O’Neal Boys & Girls Club of Henry County, located just outside of Atlanta. The 2021 gala raised more than $2.9 million, providing essential support for the Club, Shaquille’s annual Shaq-a-Claus holiday program and more. Proceeds from this year’s event will support similar efforts, including a new project (yet to be announced) in Las Vegas with Boys & Girls Clubs and Communities in Schools.
