Arnold Schwarzenegger's charity night raises record $9.75m for US students

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s charity night raises record $9.75 million for US students (Image Credit: The Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative)A single evening of fundraising can make a difference in the lives of thousands of children, particularly when it helps provide access to education, mentorship and opportunities beyond the classroom. Actor and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s annual charity event in Los Angeles has achieved a new milestone, raising a record $9.75 million to support young people across the United States. The money will benefit After-School All-Stars, a non-profit organisation that works with children and young people through free after-school programmes.The Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative reported the record-breaking fundraising achievement in an October 14, 2026, update, noting that the annual Arnold Schwarzenegger–Westime Charity Night brought together supporters for a cause close to the actor’s heart. After-School All-Stars also confirmed the achievement in an October 22 post on its official website, describing the event as its 13th annual charity night. The organisation said the funds would support its nationwide programmes, which serve nearly 150,000 students.Arnold Schwarzenegger’s annual charity event raises $9.75 millionThe 13th Annual Arnold Schwarzenegger-Westime Charity Night was held earlier in October at Schwarzenegger’s home in Los Angeles. The event was co-hosted by Schwarzenegger and John Simonian, founder of luxury watch retailer Westime and a board member of After-School All-Stars. The fundraiser has developed into an important annual gathering for supporters of the organisation. What began as an effort to bring friends and supporters together has grown into a major fundraising occasion, with contributions directed towards programmes for children and young people.This year's total of $9.75 million marks a record for the event. According to After-School All-Stars, the amount represents an investment in the futures of nearly 150,000 students who benefit from its programmes across the country. The organisation emphasised that the fundraising achievement was not simply about collecting a large sum of money. It was about sustaining opportunities for students to discover their interests, develop confidence and work towards their personal and educational goals.What happened during the 13th annual charity night?The evening brought together supporters, entertainers, artists and contributors for a Western-themed celebration. The programme featured several performances and activities, giving guests an opportunity to participate in the fundraising effort while supporting the organisation's work. According to After-School All-Stars' account of the event, the entertainment included line dancing and performances by the two-time Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Divas. Young mariachi performer Mateo Lopez also presented a rendition of the US national anthem, while blues music brought the evening to a close.Guests were offered additional experiences, including customised Western hats, bolo ties and traditional tintype portraits. The event also featured a live auction, with individuals, artists and business partners contributing special items and experiences to help raise funds. Milan Carter served as the evening's emcee, while Chuck Dukas led the auction. Contributors included Richard Mille, MANSORY, boxer Ryan Garcia, Billy Lucas and Daniel Marshall. Artists Nick Moss, Lotte Zhang, Wes Lang and Hiro Yamagata also donated original works of art. The dining arrangements were provided by Wolfgang Puck Catering, with chefs Eric Klein and Garry Larduinat and their team overseeing the food. TOMA also returned to serve its signature empanadas.How After-School All-Stars supports studentsCo-founded by Schwarzenegger more than three decades ago, After-School All-Stars focuses on helping children succeed academically and develop skills that can support them beyond school. Its programmes provide free after-school and summer learning opportunities to students across the United States. The organisation operates at more than 750 schools and community sites nationwide. Its work includes academic support, enrichment activities, opportunities to build friendships and access to caring adults who can guide and encourage young people.These programmes are particularly important because learning and personal development do not stop when the regular school day ends. After-school activities can give children additional time to explore subjects, discover interests and develop abilities that may not receive as much attention during classroom lessons. By keeping programmes free, After-School All-Stars also aims to make these opportunities accessible to children and families who might otherwise face financial barriers to participation.In its October 22 announcement, the organisation highlighted the importance of relationships between students and programme staff. CEO Ben Paul explained that children often remember the people who made a difference in their lives more than individual activities. He emphasised that supportive relationships are central to the organisation's mission of helping young people succeed in school and life.Schwarzenegger's long-standing commitment to the organisationSchwarzenegger's involvement in After-School All-Stars is closely connected to the organisation's founding and its continued efforts to expand opportunities for young people. Through the annual charity night, he has helped bring together donors and supporters to provide financial backing for its work. The latest fundraiser also reflects the role that private contributions and community support can play in sustaining non-profit programmes. While the $9.75 million raised represents a significant achievement, the organisation's work continues throughout the year at schools and community locations across the country.The Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative also highlighted the enthusiasm and generosity of those attending the event. Its director, Monika Langthaler, was present at the gathering and witnessed the support shown for the cause. With its latest fundraising record, the Arnold Schwarzenegger-Westime Charity Night has provided fresh support for an organisation working to make after-school education and enrichment opportunities available to nearly 150,000 students nationwide.