On Saturday, June 15, 2019, After-School All-Stars founder Arnold Schwarzenegger welcomed over 150 philanthropic guests to his private home in L.A. for the seventh annual Arnold Schwarzenegger Westime Charity Night benefiting After-School All-Stars. Westime, the luxury watch and jewelry retailer led by John and Greg Simonian, sponsored the Western- themed event. Through the unwavering commitment of Schwarzenegger and Westime, the annual event has raised $12.8 million over the last seven years, to support free, comprehensive after-school programs for low- income, underserved students across the nation during the hours of 3-6pm.
For more than three decades, Westime has distinguished itself as the ultimate retail destination specializing in extraordinary watches and jewelry. Its four boutiques —in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, La Jolla, and Miami— display the collections of more than 50 watch brands that represent the best of traditional watchmaking as well as the new guard in haute horlogerie. Westime is frequently cited as one of a dozen multi-brand retailers in the world that influences trends in the watchmaking industry. Westime also operates select Breitling and Audemars Piguet boutiques in the U.S.
Winning auction bidders at the Charity Night went home with priceless experiences, memorabilia, and stunning art from world-renowned National Geographic photographers. Other contributing artists included Fabian Perez, Nicolas Castello, Alexander Hoeller, Jin-Woo Prensena, Fidia Falaschetti, Arthur Williams, and Danielle Weber, amongst others.
Arnold Schwarzenegger says: “I started After-School All-Stars because I saw the need for programs to keep our kids safe and learning between 3 and 6pm, I couldn’t be prouder about how we’ve grown to be a premier program provider recognized as the best in the business, but we couldn’t have done that without a lot of generosity.” Meanwhile, John Simonian added: “Seven years ago we wanted to create a really fun, laid-back Westime event with Arnold, in his home, as a new fundraiser supporting the charity he founded. Every year the event has brought in more money for charity while keeping its relaxed style. This year was the most successful ever, and a real testament to everyone's belief.”
The night was full of exciting moments, including musical acts and an exceptional performance by the award-winning After-School All-Stars Bell Gardens Intermediate dance team. A standout moment was the live auction, hosted by American Ninja Warrior personality Matt Iseman and comedian Tom Arnold. The night had a surprising twist when guests Alex and Leila Hormozi pledged to donate $1 million on the spot.
By the end of the night, all eyes were on the incredible watches and jewelry donated by Westime’s partners: Richard Mille, Audemars Piguet, Carl F. Bucherer, Hublot, Messika, Bulgari, Grand Seiko, Blancpain, Ulysse Nardin and Breitling.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Governor Schwarzenegger and John Simonian, as well as the many brand partners and generous donors who participated this year,” said Ben Paul, President and CEO of After-School All-Stars. “Through this event, committed people from around the world have joined us in support of our youth and made a clear commitment to invest in the next generation. We truly can’t thank them enough for being a part of our work.”
For more info on Westime click here and for Arnold’s After-School All-Stars here.
