• Auction of 18 signed books by Warren Buffett and Carrie Sova raised over $1.3 million for Stephen Center, an Omaha-based charity.
• Warren Buffett personally matched every dollar donated, doubling the impact of the fundraising effort.
• Funds will support renovations of addiction recovery facilities and construction of a new women and children's center to combat rising homelessness in Omaha.

At the Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, a silent auction of 18 exclusive anniversary books signed by Warren Buffett and author Carrie Sova, generated over $1.3 million for Stephen Center, a charity in Omaha, Nebraska, focused on providing housing and addiction recovery programs. Buffett matched all donations, substantially increasing the funds raised. The auction drew significant interest from shareholders who were eager to obtain memorabilia signed by Buffett, particularly in light of his announcement of stepping down as CEO at the year-end.

• What: Auction of 18 '60 Years of Berkshire Hathaway' books signed by Warren Buffett and Carrie Sova to benefit Stephen Center.
• Who: Warren Buffett, Carrie Sova, Stephen Center, Chris Knauf (CEO of Stephen Center), Berkshire Hathaway shareholders, Matthew Rodriguez, Jay Ji.
• When: Online auction prior to Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, followed by live auction during the meeting weekend.
• Where: Omaha, Nebraska (location of Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting and Stephen Center).

The auction's success underscores Warren Buffett's commitment to philanthropy and his dedication to supporting local organizations in Omaha. The funds raised will significantly impact Stephen Center's ability to address homelessness and addiction in the community. The high bids for the signed books reflect the value placed on Buffett memorabilia, especially given the timing with his planned departure as CEO, as well as the desire of shareholders to contribute to a cause he supports. The unexpected direct donations to the charity further demonstrate the respect and admiration Buffett commands.

"There are truly no words that can adequately express mine and our gratitude for this incredible generosity. It's just phenomenal."

"It's going to be a pretty priceless artifact in my library."

"What Mr. Buffett has done for me, what Mr. Buffett has done for my family, is immeasurable. If the least we can do is write a check for this charity, then we want to do it."

"I want to just do my part. I'm more determined to try to find ways to to make sure that ... fewer families will experience those kind of hardships, and whenever possible, to deploy some resources to help."

The auction of Warren Buffett's signed books proved to be an extraordinary triumph, raising over $1.3 million for the Stephen Center, significantly boosting their efforts to combat homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges in Omaha. Buffett's matching contribution amplified the impact of the fundraiser, underscoring his deep-rooted commitment to local philanthropy and community support. These funds will enable significant advancements, including renovations of existing facilities and the construction of a new center, expanding the Stephen Center's capacity to serve the increasing number of vulnerable individuals and families in the region. Specifically, construction is planned to begin in the spring of 2025, with an expected completion in the summer of 2026, for a new Women & Family Center that will provide safe and secure housing for women and children experiencing homelessness. This initiative showcases the powerful connection between Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway shareholders, and the Omaha community, reflecting a shared dedication to addressing critical social needs and fostering a culture of giving. Beyond this particular event, Buffett's legacy of philanthropy, including his work with the Gates Foundation and the Giving Pledge, continues to inspire widespread charitable action, embedding a spirit of community responsibility and support in Omaha and beyond.