Derek Jeter's Blackjack Tournament Weekend

Derek Jeter’s second annual Blackjack Tournament Weekend powers Turn 2 Foundation's mission

The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood presented “Winner-Takes-All” Blackjack Tournament & Celebration featuring electrifying performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Ashanti

Event raised $850K to support Turn 2's programs for youth

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. - The stakes were high and the impact even higher as VIP guests gathered for Derek Jeter’s second annual Blackjack Tournament Weekend, presented by The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, from May 16-17. The two-day event, which took place at the renowned entertainment, gaming and hospitality destination in Hollywood, Fla., featured live entertainment and special events that raised $850,000 to support Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation and its programs serving youth.

“It was a privilege to join our friends and supporters for this incredible tournament benefiting Turn 2,” Derek Jeter said. “Witnessing so many people unite in support of our mission was truly inspiring, ensuring that we can continue to empower youth to lead with integrity, succeed academically and unlock their full potential. We were honored to once again partner with Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood this year, and are grateful to our sponsors who continue to make this event possible.”

The festivities kicked off on Friday, May 16, with a blackjack tournament and viewing party, where the winner walked away with a $100,000 prize. The event continued Saturday, May 17, with a celebration at The Guitar Hotel Pool, where Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood brought the crowd to their feet with an extraordinary performance by Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress Ashanti. During the special event, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood President Bo Guidry also took the stage to share remarks, and presented Turn 2 with a $100,000 donation.

“At Turn 2, empowering young people to overcome challenges and advocate for social change is at the heart of our mission,” said Sharlee Jeter, president of The Turn 2 Foundation. “The generous contributions from this event will help the Foundation to continue providing enriching opportunities that fuel young people’s passions and inspire them to become tomorrow’s leaders. We are profoundly grateful to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood for partnering with us and for the ongoing support of our sponsors and friends.”

“We were honored to host Derek Jeter’s second annual Blackjack Tournament Weekend at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood,” said Guidry, president of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. “Philanthropy is embedded in our Hard Rock DNA, and we are proud to support Turn 2, a remarkable organization that empowers youths and inspires them to dream big, equipping them with the tools they need to achieve their ambitions.”

Derek Jeter established The Turn 2 Foundation during his rookie year with the New York Yankees in 1996. Since its launch, Turn 2 has worked to help young people reach their full potential by creating and supporting initiatives that promote leadership development, academic achievement, positive behavior, healthy lifestyles and social change.