Tag Archives: Bingo Fundraiser

Bingo! May be the Right Path for Washington County

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Bingo may be on the Right Path for Washington County, Ohio!

Instant bingo fundraiser is the subject matter of discussions at Right Path for Washington County.  The compatibility of bingo with the healthy youth focus of right path is the question.

Fact finding at Right Path

Right Path for Washington County is an organization that takes its mission seriously.  That mission involves the development of healthy youth. The opportunity on Right Path’s table would provide a portion of the profits from the sale of instant bingo tickets to the nonprofit’s coffers.  The tickets would be sold at retail businesses chosen by Right Path. The Ohio Children’s Foundation, through the Family & Children First Council, initially suggested instant bingo to Right Path as a valid and appropriate funding source.  This is a statewide initiative, signed into law by Ohio Gov. John Kasich in June 2012. 

The law provides that a portion of instant bingo sales would be turned over to Right Path, for distribution to itself and other charitable organizations in Washington County.  Ohio Children’s Foundation treasurer Russell Miller has commented that Right Path would be the lead agent in collecting and distributing the ongoing instant bingo profits.  Between 7% and 10% of those profits are designated for charitable purposes.

Looking a Gift Horse in the Mouth

Right Path board president Karen Waller is in favor of the bingo project.  She views the statewide sale of instant bingo tickets as an appropriate fundraising activity.  Another member of the board Lynn Doebrich, however, has expressed her opinion that “rip-off tickets” is not compatible with Right Path’s mission to promote healthy youth.  Waller has emphasized that Right Path would not be selling the bingo tickets.  At their board meeting to gather information, Miller was questioned in regard to the salary of employees at the Ohio Children’s Foundation.  He reported that the full and complete yearly salary of each of the four employees was $70,000, which satisfied Right Path that the Foundation was above-board.

According to Waller, Right Path is economically solid, even though funding for mental health, including juvenile services, has been decreased throughout the state.  Waller acknowledged that juvenile mental health programs must be realigned to meet governmental budget demands. Instant bingo tickets represent a new approach to fundraising for the nonprofit organization.  Right Path fundraisers in 2012 have included a Washington County Rightditarod in March, which raised over $12,000; spring Fish Fry, raising in excess of $3,000; and summer Broughton Ice Cream Social.  The profits from these fundraisers have been distributed to local food pantries, Right Path’s summer programs, and the Marietta Community Foundation. 

The designation of Right Path as a 501c3 agency currently qualifies the organization for the charitable receipt of bingo revenue.  One wonders why Right Path is not jumping at the opportunity to spread instant bingo profits to youth programs such as juvenile mental health.  Various school districts across the U.S. look to bingo to provide youth services, to the delight of the communities benefitting from bingo fun as well as funds.

The “Beanzy” Basket Bingo fundraiser is a winner!

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In a small dot on the U.S. map, over 100 people are expected to get together and play bingo, eat hotdogs and pay tribute to the memory of a life-loving lady.  Thelma Jean “Beanzy” Foote was Ann Arcurie’s good friend.  After Beanzy’s death, Arcurie needed a catharsis.

Bingo to the Rescue

That catharsis materialized when Arcurie put together the bingo that Beanzy loved with the needs of local fire departments.  Two of Beanzy’s grandsons are volunteer firefighters.  The thought of an annual charitable bingo event to honor the memory of a great friend was a natural.  All of Beanzy’s family and friends jumped at the idea.  Thus was born the “Beanzy” Basket Bingo fundraiser.  Most of the profits go to local volunteer fire companies.

Friends and family who loved Thelma donate the prize baskets and homemade goodies, along with their time and energy.  This is the fifth year for the fundraiser.  The date is September 23, 2012 from 12:30 PM on into the afternoon.  Arcurie, a Moscow, PA resident, is the founder and co-chairwoman for the event.

Thelma was predeceased by her husband of 54 years.  They had three daughters and various grandchildren.  Their daughters are Cherrie Bentler, Debra Colarossi and Francine Edmondson.  The Footes were friendly folk, who often hosted their many friends and family at their home.  Their doors were always open.  It gives everyone a feeling of happiness to participate in Thelma’s bingo tribute.

“Beanzy” Basket Bingo Fundraiser

Over 100 people have attended the bingo fundraiser in each of the past four years.  At least as many participants are expected at this year’s event.  So far, the “Beanzy” Basket Bingo fundraiser has contributed $8,200 to three local volunteer fire departments:  Elmhurst/Roaring Brook, Madisonville and Gouldsboro, in addition to the North Pocono Senior Center and North Pocono Food Pantry.  The 2012 goal is to donate more than $2,000 to those same worthy causes.

Admission prices vary according to the number of bingo cards players want.  18 bingo cards come with the $20 admission price, 12 bingo cards are available for $15 and the $10 admission price consists of 6 bingo cards.  15 bingo games will be played, and many baskets won.  Other prizes include gift certificates to restaurants in the community and homemade delicacies.

Bingo Celebrations for One and All

More than bingo will be enjoyed by the families and individuals who participate.  Sausage and peppers, hotdogs, wimpies and hamburgers will be available for purchase.  And you can bet there will be plenty of beverages on hand.

A special, newly organized feature will be provided at this year’s event.  A kids’ corner for those 14 years of age and under will give the younger set something fun to participate in while their parents play bingo.  The kids’ corner, including games, prizes and crafts, begins at the same time that the bingo event opens.

Arcurie and the other volunteers look forward to the frenzy of the bingo fundraiser.  They consider it to be a fitting memorial for a happy friend.

Charity Bingo: The Perfect Fundraiser

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Charity bingo at the Best Western Palace Hotel and Casino has raised an amazing £45,000 for various charities this year.  Charity bingo was held 48 times during the past year and each night was dedicated to raising money for a different charity.  Participants can purchase tickets for £20 which includes 10 games of bingo, a buffet and a chance to win great cash prizes.  Funds from Mechanical Coin Bingo are also given to charity along with funds made from raffles and other fundraising events. 

 Get Involved with Charity Bingo

Charity bingo is fun for everyone who attends as players are able to relax in a comfortable atmosphere and at the same time, contributing to a great cause.  Charity bingo nights are almost as much fun for the bingo employees as it is for bingo players.  The charities that benefit from charity bingo agree that it is one of their largest fundraisers and some events can contribute as much as £2,000 a night for charities.  The charities are universally supported and everyone has a wonderful time.  St. Mary’s Lourdes Youth Center, one of the charities that is supported by charity bingo, sends 25 youths to Lourdes, France each July to volunteer with assisting the disabled, elderly and sick.  The funds that are received from charity bingo allow St. Mary’s to pay for accommodation and travel costs of the youths that go on the trip. 

Ohio Charitable Bingo and VLTs

The owners of Ohio racetracks have argued that they need a fair chance to compete against casinos and racetracks in other states.  They argued that the people of Ohio were going to racetracks in other states which had video lottery terminals (VLTs) and slot machines.  This argument resulted in the installation of VLTs at Ohio’s racetrack facilities.  Now, charitable bingo operations in Ohio are making the same claim.  In 2010, Ohio had over 2,000 bingo games. This figured has dropped precipitously to a little over 1,300.  The bingo games and supported charities are now struggling since the openings of casinos, racetracks and sweepstakes cafes. And it is likely that they will struggle more as additional casinos are opened.

Makeshift Solution to Bingo Woes

Because of this, charities have been forced to reduce services to senior citizens, veterans, the disabled, the poor and those will illnesses.  These charities have discontinued services that many people have relied on.  The charitable bingo operators say they are also only asking for a fair chance to compete just as the racetrack operators have.  Owners of charitable bingo operations are only requesting permission to operate VLTs for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and not for a change in Ohio state law. 

In order for charitable bingo to operate VLTs, there just needs to be a small change to the current laws so these operations can apply for a VLT license.  The charitable bingo operators are also not asking for an increase in gambling but for the ability to operate games that have been around for years.  Moreover, charitable bingo operators are asking to use these same games that have already done a great deal of good for the communities around Ohio. 

Bingo, Food, Drag Queens, and Entertainment

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Bingo for Lunch – Served Up in Drag

Lots of merriment and good cheer takes to the stage as Drag Queen Bingo delivers bolus, after bolus of riveting entertainment.

Excellent Food, Bingo, and Entertainment

Looking for a good time, quick bite to eat, and lots of laughs?  Check out Hamburger Patties Restaurant on J Street once a month and join the Bingo Extravaganza.  You will meet the likes of ‘Do Me Moore” – enthusiastic and comical Drag Queen that is often your host.  Moore dons lovely dresses in animal print, costume jewelry that bedazzles, and make-up artistry that might just knock your socks off.   This is not just your local bingo hall blitz – this is Bingo extraordinaire!  Stop in, grab a booth and tell the waiter that you came for Burger n’ Bingo.  The place gets packed so come early and stay late. 

Do Me Moore is not the sole host at Bingo n’ Burger night each month – his colleagues include a lovely array Queens that are comical, exuberant, and flashy.  Lucky Bingo winners will be walked through the ‘gauntlet’ – they will dress in drag and be paraded through the restaurant. Moore and other hosts will make wise-cracks and cause a ruckus.  There is simply no better way to try something unique exciting – it’s not just ‘dinner and a movie’ – it’s interactive and it’s downright fun.

Drag Queen Bingo Helps Fund Local Non-Profit Animal Clinic

The best part of Drag Queen Bingo is the funds that are raised for a local non-profit animal clinic.  The Front Street Animal Clinic is one of the charitable contributions made by everyone who participates in this superb Bingo Night each month.  Hamburger Patties donates the location and other charitable contributions.  Do Me Moore and other energetic and enthusiastic hosts donate their time and effort as MC’s.  The many Bingo enthusiasts that have participated in any or all of the monthly gatherings have made an impact on the ability to raise annual funds of over £50,000. 

These funds are dispersed to several local non-profits, such as the Front Street Animal Clinic.  The non-profit organizations provide a wonderful service to the community.  Moore and co-hosts are hams for the camera – and for an additional $1 donation to the cause – they will be happy to oblige.  Come as you are, or come in the craziest costume and eyeglasses that you can lay your hands on!  Everyone is welcome at the Thursday Night Drag Queen Bingo Blitz.  Hamburger Patties Restaurant and ‘Do Me Moore’ extends an invitation to come one, come all! Eat, play Bingo, and be merry.

Bingo Fundraiser for Gary ‘Music’ Miller

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Neighbours indeed for family in need! 

A disc jockey veteran of 30 years at a local station in Huntington, W. Virginia has experienced a catastrophe.  Last month his house burned down as the result of a car crashing into the residence.  He and his wife had no homeowners insurance, and no funds.  Gary “Music” Miller had lost his job in 2009, and he and his wife have been experiencing health and financial problems ever since.  The community has come to their rescue.

Housing Provided by a Caring Community

Since the fire, the couple’s housing has been provided by the local Best Western Motel; the radio station, WKEE-FM, where Miller had worked for 30 years; and a kind-hearted listener.  A childhood classmate has come forward to offer a small rental home to the Millers.

Bingo Fundraiser at The Bank

A charity bingo and benefit fund have been set up for the Millers at a local bank.  The fund holds $100 at present, and the Millers are hoping for a large turnout at the bingo event.  Radio Station WKEE hosted another charity bingo event at Redmond Bingo on June 12, the date of the Millers’ 31st wedding anniversary.  The station promoted the bingo night on the air.  All proceeds have been placed in the benefit fund account. With housing provided, the fund will be used for refurbishing as much of the fire-damaged furniture as possible.  It will also be needed for making necessary repairs on the rental home that the couple will be occupying, as well as for the purchase of any further furniture necessary.

It seems that with a little help from their friends, the Millers are on the road to OKAY.

Bingo Tips to Help Support Homeless Children

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A drag queen host presented a check to a shelter for homeless youth, the most money raised in one month for charity. The drag queen and her entourage visit the diner each month to perform. Their tips are used for the diner’s selected nonprofit organization of the month

Bingo Fundraiser

This month, it was a shelter for youth, who are gay, bisexual or transgender. A total of $2,106 was raised for the shelter, way above the month before in which $1,400 was donated. The organization, in turn, was elated. One of the board members, who is also the treasurer, said the funds would go toward rent, utilities and monthly expenses, which are approximately $4,500 per month.

The Bingo Shelter

The face behind the drag queen leader is a man, who said supporting homeless youth should never be questioned, despite the nature of the shelter’s service. Gay or straight, homeless children should be valued. The shelter helps youth search for jobs and gain temporary housing. It also provides counseling and other services for youth, ages 18-25. While some clients may not be homeless as of yet, they are facing the plight. Bingo, a drag performance and pizza are on the diner’s agenda Wednesday evenings.

Bingo as a Charity Fundraiser

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Sensational journalism looks to find fault.  That investigation found no dishonesty. 

The results instead indicated that across the state, after cash prizes were paid and salaries and fees expended, approximately 5% remained as a profit margin.  The charities received the entirety of that profit. 

There was a second finding of the WOAI investigation:  The degree of success for bingo halls varies from one to another, and not all bingo halls are successful.  Sounds pretty much like any group of businesses in any industry.

Bingo: Fundraiser for Charity and Past-time for Americans

The history of bingo in the US began with fundraising, entertainment and social gatherings in churches and VFW halls.  They didn’t make much money, but people just love to get together and play bingo.  Your grandmother’s bingo is still the enjoyable bingo game for the players.  However, for the charities, it’s big business.  As WOAI pointed out, bingo took in over $700 million in one year, and charitable organizations received $34 million in profits.  That’s $34 million for fire engines, churches, schools, children’s extracurricular sports, and all of the other causes that benefit our communities. 

Charitable Bingo Laws

There are two forms of legal gambling in most states:  The state lottery and charitable bingo.  States have enacted laws that strictly regulate bingo operations.  Through licensing requirements, the business of bingo as a fundraiser is monitored.  Public information about bingo halls includes gross revenue totals and the amount of profit remaining after cash prizes are awarded, and salaries and fees are paid.

Bingo is an entertainment alternative.  Governmental smoking bans and competition from casinos are financially damaging to charitable bingo.  Nevertheless, bingo remains a robust industry. Web technology and media marketing have contributed to the complexity bingo as a serious fundraising mechanism.  By aligning with bingo halls, charities access the expertise and financial strength of gaming professionals.

Charitable Bingo in Texas

The Charitable Bingo Operations Division of the Texas Lottery Commission licenses organizations that are authorized and commercial ventures.  For marketing expertise, some charitable organizations turn to companies such as Littlefield Charitable Bingo Management Consulting, Inc. and Texas Association for the Advancement of Charitable Bingo.  The goal is to maximize the profit margin of the charities. A top profit margin of 17% was recorded in Ohio.  However, profit margins of 10% or less are the usual.  Some charities and bingo halls actually lose money.  This is an industry just like any other.

Contributions of Charitable Bingo

Charitable bingo helps support hundreds of sports clubs, veterans’ halls, orthodox churches and Catholic schools.  Bingo funds local VFWs and American Legions that assist veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan in their transition to civilian life. Monica Moloney, Assistant Chief of the Charitable Law office for the Ohio Attorney General summed up the present bingo industry in America by saying many people think of bingo as a low-dollar money maker but it is not.  It is a large money making business and many charities survive on charitable bingo funds. One church administrator in Ohio was happy to report that bingo has helped build churches.  In Texas, as the WOAI News found, bingo games continue to reap millions of dollars for charity.

Family Organizes Bingo Fundraiser for Meningitis UK

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After losing their 10-month old daughter Kadyn to Meningitis, the Busby family organized a bingo fundraiser for Meningitis UK.  The event raised more than £1,200 for the Kadyn Busby Forever Fund.  In the last three months, more than £8,600 has been raised by Kadyn’s family for the fund.

A Glimmer of Hope

The death of 10-month old Kadyn Busby was heartbreaking not only to her family and friends, but the entire community.  Kadyn passed away after battling Meningitis, a serious disease that causes inflammation around the brain.  In the hopes of raising money for Meningitis UK, the Busby family created the Kadyn Busby Forever Fund to save money that will be donated to Meningitis research.  The latest fundraiser was held over the Easter Weekend and has been hailed as a big success.  This event was a bingo fundraiser that was open to everyone in the community.

Meningitis Bingo Fundraiser

The bingo fundraiser drew more than 150 people from the community, including Kadyn’s friends and family.  The event raised more than £1,200 for the Kadyn Busby Forever Fund. There were many bingo games, prizes, a raffle and an Easter Bunny game for the children.  The family was thankful and pleased with the turnout of the event, and they plan on continuing to hold fundraisers for Meningitis UK.  The family says that in three months they have raised more than £8,600 for the Forever Fund.

Community Hosts Bingo Fundraiser for Sick Teen

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Augustus Conmy-Wing, a state-finalist snowboarder and high school student, suffers from a rare type of cancer.  In order to raise money for his treatment and hospital visits, the community has set up a bingo fundraiser.  Gus also likes to ride his dirt bike, and to play soccer and baseball. 

Bingo Community Support

Seventeen-year-old Gus Comny-Wing was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer, but that has not stopped him from chasing his dreams.  He is a champion snowboarder and received first place in snowboarding during the state finals.  After the finals, Gus experienced bleeding and had to be admitted into the hospital.  Despite this, Gus felt that he had to get on his snowboard and finish the finals.  As an inspiration to the community, a bingo fundraiser is being held in Gus’s honor at his high school.  There are many people in the community who plan to attend the bingo event despite the financial devastation of Tropical Storm Irene along with the recent economic downfall.  Those who are close to Gus have said they are proud to be part of a community that is willing to help their own, no matter what.

The Face of Cancer

Gus was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer about a year ago.  The cancer was found when Gus had to go to the hospital after a snowboarding accident.  The cancer was found under his kidney and has since metastasized to his bones.  In the hopes of removing the tumor, Gus has been receiving chemotherapy.  Gus has been involved in school and sports for most of his life. His other hobbies include baseball, soccer and riding his dirt bike.  Unfortunately, Gus cannot do most of the activities he loves because of his cancer, and the chemotherapy treatment.  Gus plans to study business technology and management at Vermont Technical College after he graduates from high school.

Pace University Bingo Fundraiser Raised $2,600 for Make-A-Wish

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The Student Athletic Advisory Committee at Pace University held a Bingo fundraiser for the sixth year in the Goldstein Health and Fitness Center. With more than $2,600 raised from this single event, Bingo is the fundraiser of choice for Pace University to bring in donations to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. With more than 250 faculty and students in attendance, the Make-A-Wish foundation is the Division II school charity of choice. Refreshments were brought in from Joe’s Deli and Lucio’s Pizza for no charge to the individuals who joined in on the fundraiser.

 Race to the Goal

The goal for the year for the SAAC is $8000. With the $2,600 take on Tuesday the total raised for the year is over $6,000. This is the largest amount that SAAC has fundraised towards the Make-A-Wish Foundation in history of the University.

 Upcoming Events

Over the coming weeks, there will be several other events to help the community. Players have multiple opportunities to join in. The fortunate players will be going to assist the Pleasantville PTA with beautification in the school’s courtyard. Other upcoming events include the softball team and the lacrosse teams going Pink to support breast cancer at sporting events.

Pace University’s SAAC will also be joining in for the Relay for Life on April 20, 2012. The SAAC will also be hosting an event on April 25, 2012 for developmentally challenged children at a Pace University Baseball game. The committee also worked with Colleges Against Cancer earlier this year. They were able to fundraise over $2,500 towards the Dickson Cancer Treatment Center located in White Plains, NY.

Mark The Calendar

With the success of raising over $2,600 from the annual fundraiser this year be sure to mark your calendar for next year. Players are encouraged to participate – enjoy the refreshments and the bingo games on offer.