Monday, August 28, 2006

Charity Village®NewsWeek: Cover Story-Charitable gaming ethics and issues

Charity Village®NewsWeek: Cover Story: "Charitable gaming ethics and issues
Andy Levy-AjzenkopfBy Andy Levy-Ajzenkopf
August 28, 2006

Gambling has been a part of human society for centuries. Whether one is motivated by the search for quick riches or the adrenaline rush that comes with teetering on the edge of success (or defeat) at the betting table, people enjoy the thrills associated with games of chance. While most people can enjoy gaming responsibly, there is mounting evidence and concern that the activity is impacting Canadian society in harmful ways. Ironic then that many charitable organizations rely on gambling revenue for their causes.

Though small-scale bingos, lotteries and raffles -- a mainstay of small-charity fundraising strategy for years -- are typically considered harmless to participants, since the opening of Canada’s first charity casino in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario in 1999, the stakes (pardon the pun) have risen significantly. And some are suggesting it may be time to re-evaluate the tactic for the greater good."

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