The Fountain Valley Community Foundation hosted its 40th charity poker tournament April 18, drawing 200 players and raising more than $19,000 to support local nonprofits, as well as the foundation’s community grants and scholarship program. Over the years, the tournament has raised more than $800,000 for nonprofit organizations.
Players ranged from first-time participants to experienced card players hoping to win the grand prize and bragging rights while enjoying an evening of friendly competition.
Newcomers quickly discovered the tournament was designed to be a fun and social gathering, with fellow players eager to answer questions and help them learn the game.
THE FINAL TABLE PRODUCED EIGHT WINNERS:
• Poker champion: Dick N.
• Second place: Frank G.
• Third place: Mike R., FVHS Pep Squad
• Fourth place: Andy N., FV Firefighters Association
• Fifth place: Barry B.,
• FVHS Softball
• Sixth place: Stephanie A.
• Seventh place: Riki K., FVHS Pep Squad
• Eighth place: Bao N., Masuda PTO
Organizers credited sponsors for helping make the evening possible, including dinner, prizes and tournament operations. Sponsors included Lamppost Pizza, All in Productions, Hyundai, Lytle Screen Printing, May Wealth Capital, Red Persimmon Nails, Jar Insurance, BB Electric and Tony Fong Real Estate.
Silent auction prizes, volunteers and community support also contributed to the event’s success. Additional supporters included Boomer Media Group, Hi-Time Wine Cellars, O Entertainment, Amuse4Autism, the Fountain Valley Police Department, the Fountain Valley Fire Department, Kiwanis Club of Fountain Valley, Sonesta Hotels, Pho Ha Noi and Grocery Outlet.
The Fountain Valley Community Foundation, now in its 18th year, has supported numerous organizations through fundraising efforts and community grants. Its volunteer Activities Committee also assists with city and community events throughout the year.
The foundation’s first capital project, the Universally Accessible Playground, received support through previous poker tournaments. Its current capital campaign supports the expansion of performing arts and martial arts facilities at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley Kingston Branch, with one poker tournament raising $20,000 for the effort.
Organizers thanked attendees and supporters and invited the community to the next charity poker tournament scheduled for Nov. 14, 2026.