We have previously discussed the process of obtaining a charitable gaming license, a mandatory pre-requisite for an organization wanting to host a gaming event like a raffle, bingo night, or casino. These types of events have been a cornerstone of fundraising efforts for patient advocacy groups, offering unique opportunities to engage their community while generating much-needed funds. However, like any fundraising strategy, charitable gaming comes with its own set of pros and cons. In this article, we explore these aspects to aid patient advocacy groups in making informed decisions about incorporating gaming into their fundraising mix.
Pros:
- Community Engagement: Gaming events serve as powerful platforms for community engagement. They bring people together for a common purpose, fostering a sense of camaraderie and solidarity among participants. Through gaming, patient advocacy groups can strengthen relationships with their supporters and build a loyal donor base.
- Revenue Generation: Gaming events have the potential to generate significant revenue for charitable organizations, making them an efficient fundraising method. Ticket sales, entry fees, and proceeds from gaming activities can contribute to fundraising goals, helping organizations fund their programs, projects, and initiatives.
- Publicity and Awareness: Hosting gaming events provides organizations with opportunities to raise awareness about their mission. Through marketing and promotional efforts surrounding gaming events, patient advocacy groups can increase their visibility, attract new supporters, and educate the larger community about their disease of focus.
Cons:
- Regulatory Complexity: As discussed in a previous article, charitable gaming in Canada is subject to strict regulatory requirements, varying by province or territory. Organizations must navigate a complex legal framework governing gaming activities, including obtaining licenses, permits, and adhering to reporting and compliance obligations.
- Administrative Burden: Organizing gaming events can be administratively intensive, requiring careful planning, coordination, and execution. From securing venues to managing logistics and finances, organizations must dedicate time and resources to ensure the smooth operation of gaming activities.
- Financial Risk: While gaming events have the potential for significant revenue generation, they also entail financial risk. Organizers must invest in upfront costs such as licensing, venue rental, equipment, and marketing, with the possibility that proceeds may not meet expectations, leading to financial losses.
- Ethical Considerations: Some individuals may have ethical reservations about charitable gaming, particularly activities perceived to promote gambling or exploit vulnerable populations. Organizations must consider the potential societal impact of gaming activities and ensure they align with ethical standards and values.
Charitable gaming presents organizations with both opportunities and challenges in their fundraising endeavors. While gaming events offer diverse fundraising opportunities, community engagement, and revenue generation potential, they also entail regulatory complexity, administrative burden, financial risk, and ethical considerations.
To effectively leverage charitable gaming as a fundraising strategy, organizations must carefully weigh the pros and cons, conduct thorough due diligence, and implement appropriate risk management and compliance measures. By approaching gaming activities strategically and responsibly, organizations can maximize the benefits while mitigating potential drawbacks, ultimately advancing their mission and making a positive impact in their patient community.
