Written by Casino night fundraising has been a big boost to fundraising efforts of charity and nonprofit organizations. Over the years, just about every form of charity has held a casino night fundraiser and has been able to not only make money but also keep donors and guests happy. This is a good way to make money for your organization but there are some things you need to know before you just go jumping in and making the announcement that you are holding one. Casino night fundraising can be fun, but you will need to keep the following in mind so that you maximize your fundraising efforts.
Casino Night Fundraising – Legality
Casino night fundraising may be for entertainment and to raise funds for your organization, but it is still a form of gambling. As each state is responsible for setting their own gambling laws, you will need to check with your state for what is needed to hold a c
asino night fundraiser. Most states only require that you fill out a simple application and pay a small fee; however, certain states ban them altogether. Don’t be worried, though. Once you fill out the proper form and pay your fee you will be all set to go with casino night fundraising.
Casino Night Fundraising – Rent v. Buy
This is where the financial wizards of your charity need to get involved with casino night fundraising. You have a choice of holding the event yourself or hiring a company who can host it for you. Professional companies travel throughout the states and have the equipment and personnel to put on your event right. However, if you plan on holding multiple events, you will want to check into buying your own equipment. It is also recommended that if you plan on holding multiple casino night fundraising events that you have your first one hosted so that you can see how it is done properly.
Casino Night Fundraising – Supplies
Supplies for casino night fundraising are easy to obtain. You can elect to rent them from the company you are contracting with to host your party or you can purchase them online through a discount party supply outlet. Also, if you plan on holding multiple events and there is a casino nearby, ask for someone in the marketing department and see if the will donate old playing cards and dice for you to use. This will save you money and you will be able to hold casino night fundraising cheaper and hold more revenue.
Casino Night Fundraising – Prizes
For donors, Casino night fundraising is all about the money. However, make your event a little more exciting. You can mix in other fundraisers with the casino night such as a live or silent auction or scratch card fundraiser tickets. This is also a good place to sell some of the fundraising merchandise that you have left over from previous fundraisers (e.g., silicone bracelets, t-shirts). Finally, while you are at the local casino picking up free playing cards, see if they will donate something of value to give away as a prize. Most will be extremely happy to help and donate free dinner or a hotel stay to give away as a prize.
Casino Night Fundraising – Marketing
Finally, once you are set to go with your casino night fundraising, you will need to get the word out to everyone. Again, utilize the local casino and see if they are willing to tell people about the event for you. You can even see if some of the staff is willing to show up as they will bring in people that they know and pack your event. Also utilize local newspapers and radio as this is a good way to spread the message fast. Finally, make sure that you advertise in local taverns and restaurants as you will obtain a lot of traffic from these locations.
If you are considering getting into casino night fundraising, you are making a wise decision. However, keep in mind the legalities of this type of event and make sure to keep it lively and fun for everyone to enjoy.
