As a member of a fraternity or sorority, you often hold fundraisers to raise money for your chapter or a philanthropy you support.  While casino nights and poker tournaments are popular, they can sometimes send the wrong message about gambling. 

Here are some suggestions for alternative fundraising events:

• Dance Marathons
• Dodge ball, softball or kickball tournaments
• Date auctions
• Karaoke night
• Talent show
• Car wash
• Mystery dinner theater
• Fashion show
• Bowl-a-Thon
• Field day events
• Singing telegram services

If you are already planning a casino fundraising event, here are some things to consider:

• Charge an entrance fee and use play money instead of real money
• If real money is being used, check IDs to make sure attendees are of legal age to gamble
• Register the event as a charity event with the state
• Post signs about the odds of winning 
• Provide brochures or other resources about responsible gambling
• Provide information on how to get help for a gambling problem 

Additionally, make sure you check with your school to determine if it has policies in place regarding these types of fundraising events, as well as pools, raffles and other gambling-related fundraiser events.

Raising Awareness on Campus

Fraternities and sororities have multiple opportunities to raise awareness of gambling and gambling disorders on campus, including chapter meetings, campus-wide Greek events and  in conversations about alcohol and drug abuse.  A variety of resources are available that to help with peer education efforts.  View tools for peer educators.