Charity Series of Poker: Results of the largest charity tournament of the year

Charity Series of Poker (CSOP) is not slowing down after the successful hosting of the biggest tournament of the year, 'Viva St. Jude', in Las Vegas.

Charity Series of Poker (CSOP) remains active following its biggest event of the year The year’s largest charity tournament: A recap of "Viva St. Jude" Late last week, the "Viva St. Jude" tournament—the flagship event of the year for the Charity Series of Poker (CSOP)—took place at Red Rock Casino Resort in Las Vegas. The event not only brought together a large segment of the poker community, but also helped the Viva St. Jude foundation reach a major milestone: over $1,000,000 has now been raised to support children in need. CSOP founder Matt Stout called this achievement “unreal” for his career in the nonprofit sector. "Viva St. Jude" was a standout event for the entire industry, drawing both seasoned pros and participants from a variety of backgrounds. Among the guests were CSOP regulars Mike Matusow, Matt Savage, and Joey Ingram, as well as well-known Las Vegas grinders Joe Berg and John Avelino. Cheyenne Ivey—sister of the legendary Phil Ivey and founder of Ivey Solutions, one of CSOP’s sponsors—also drew special attention. The evening was hosted by renowned poker commentator and stand-up comedian Joe Stapleton. The tournament kicked off with an emotional speech from a former St. Jude patient, who shared how the children’s research hospital saved his life. Other notable guests included musician Fat Mike (NOFX), actress Katie Morgan, and Ink Master winner Joey Hamilton. PokerNews was also represented at the event, with Chad Holloway, Adam Peiken, Tyler Boyer, and Connor Richards in attendance. Local grinder LoriAnn Persinger, who has over $350,000 in tournament earnings according to Hendon Mob, made the final table. The tournament was ultimately won by Edgar Alavez, who took home the trophy and the choice of a seat in either the 2026 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event or the World Poker Tour (WPT) Championship. "Viva St. Jude" Tournament Results Winner: Edgar Alavez — trophy and choice of seat: WSOP Main Event 2026 or WPT Championship Final table: LoriAnn Persinger and other participants (not individually listed in the source) The total amount raised by Viva St. Jude in partnership with CSOP has now surpassed $1,000,000. Who supported the tournament: participants and guests "Viva St. Jude" brought together not only professional players, but also people from a wide range of fields, highlighting the inclusive nature of charity tournaments. Among the participants and guests were: Mike Matusow — poker veteran Matt Savage — renowned tournament director Joey Ingram — popular podcaster and player Joe Berg and John Avelino — regular Las Vegas grinders Cheyenne Ivey — entrepreneur and Phil Ivey’s sister Fat Mike (NOFX) — musician Katie Morgan — actress Joey Hamilton — Ink Master champion Joe Stapleton — host and commentator Chad Holloway, Adam Peiken, Tyler Boyer, Connor Richards — PokerNews representatives Such a diverse lineup of guests and participants demonstrates the broad support for CSOP and the significance of these events for both the poker community and charitable causes. Next event: "Bet on a Better Las Vegas" — new goals and opportunities The Charity Series of Poker isn’t slowing down: the next tournament, "Bet on a Better Las Vegas," will take place on October 24 at The Stirling Club in Las Vegas. The event is partnered with the Junior League of Las Vegas, and all funds raised will go toward supporting programs for women, children, and families in Southern Nevada. Doors at The Stirling Club open at 5:00 PM local time, with a cocktail hour and silent auction beginning at 5:30 PM. The tournament itself kicks off at 7:00 PM. The buy-in is $200, and the prize pool features $5,000 in cash plus over $10,000 in gifts and prizes from sponsors. Kristina Villardi, President of the Junior League of Las Vegas, noted that the event combines the excitement of poker with the power of giving back: every chip is an investment in the city’s future and a show of support for vital programs for women and children. Date: October 24 Venue: The Stirling Club, Las Vegas Buy-in: $200 Prize pool: $5,000 in cash + over $10,000 in prizes Partner: Junior League of Las Vegas For more details about "Bet on a Better Las Vegas," visit the official CSOP website. About the Charity Series of Poker and its impact The Charity Series of Poker is a nonprofit organization that regularly hosts poker tournaments to raise funds for charitable initiatives. The series brings together professional players, amateurs, business leaders, celebrities, and sponsors who are committed to supporting social causes. CSOP founder Matt Stout is personally involved in organizing and promoting every event, emphasizing the importance of engaging the poker community in philanthropy. Thanks to tournaments like "Viva St. Jude" and "Bet on a Better Las Vegas," not only are significant funds raised, but attention is also drawn to pressing social issues. What this means for PPPoker club players For PPPoker club members, the CSOP experience is a great example of how poker can be more than just a game of chance—it can also be a force for social good. Organizing charity tournaments is an opportunity to unite the community, support important causes, and make a real difference. PPPoker club players can take inspiration from the CSOP format by hosting their own online charity tournaments, joining forces to support local charities or social projects. This approach not only enhances the club’s reputation, but also provides extra motivation for players. Additionally, participating in charity events is a chance to meet like-minded people, expand your network, and gain new poker experiences. By following CSOP’s successes, PPPoker clubs can draw inspiration from their example and help foster a culture of social responsibility within the poker community.