10th Annual CCDH Poker Tournament

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In 2004, Palmetto Middle School student Michael Grey, started a poker tournament to raise money for wheelchair repairs. When he graduated high school in 2009, Morrison brothers (Brian, 15 and Jay, 13) and Jared Heller (age 16) took over.  This year marks the 10th annual CCDH poker tournament, which has grown to well over 100 participants annually.

On February 2nd, come join this worthy local charity event.  Congregation Bet Shira (SW 120th Street and 77th Avenue) hosts the 3-hour Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament beginning at 12:30p. Entry costs $20 (though many contribute more) to try your luck, but more importantly to support the boys in their quest to help wheelchair bound individuals. All players and volunteers receive 4 hours of community service credit.

During the event, there will be free food and drink, raffles and lots of good conversation. Volunteers of all ages make sure this is an event everyone can enjoy. Through the years, Martin Berger has provided the poker chips, Congregation Bet Shira donates their venue and the Morrison, Heller and Gray families volunteer food, drink, time and effort to making this a special day.

Brian and Jay Morrison both agreed, “The best part of the tournament is seeing everyone get together, have a good time, raise money and see their hard work pay off for those less fortunate.” Jared Heller says “a successful turnout always make me happy. I know it’s for a great cause.”

The boys were recently recognized at CCDH’s Breakfast Of Champions event, highlighting 20 people with developmental disabilities who have achieved significant milestones in their lives. They presented Brian, Jay and Jared with the Impacting Lives Award. Jared called the experience, “humbling to receive recognition and nice to see how the poker tournament impacted lives.” Brian added, “I was humbled by the appreciation. It’s so great to see the good we can do.” Jay echoed their words and vowed, “We said we’d keep it going for Michael and that’s exactly what we’re going to do.”

Since 1975, CCDH has been Miami-Dade County's leading agency to plan, provide, coordinate, and arrange services for individuals with disabilities and their families. Last year more than $5000 was raised. With your help, more will be donated this year. For event information or to volunteer call Brian & Jay Morrison at 305-613-2069 or Jared Heller at 305-484-8831. You can also email pokertournament4charity@gmail.com