Gaming
See the full list for GamingNonprofits often host fundraisers in which activities like raffles and bingo are used to raise funds. They need to be aware of the federal and state regulations governing these activities.
During this webinar, our speaker helps nonprofits understand how federal and Georgia laws impact a nonprofit’s ability to fundraise using gambling, such as raffles or bingo.
Presenter: Jennifer Bumbalough, The American Cancer Society
Raffles and door prizes are longtime favorites in the world of nonprofit fundraising and contests are becoming more popular as nonprofits look for creative ways to raise money. But are you familiar with the many laws that govern gaming and contests?
The questions that most charities don’t ask are: Are such activities illegal under GA law? Are there ways to conduct such activities so that they are legal? How can I raise needed funds through giveaways and games of chance or skill in Georgia?
Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta has several articles on the topic, including ones on Casino Nights, Raffles and Bingo listed below.
Casino Night, Poker Tournaments, Raffles and Bingo Games: Your Fundraiser Could Be Illegal Gambling
It seems like every time you turn around, another charity is conducting a raffle, sweepstakes, contest, casino night or door prize give-away. The questions that most charities don’t ask are: Are such activities illegal under GA law? Are there ways to conduct such activities so that they are legal? How can I raise needed funds through giveaways and games of chance or skill in Georgia? During this one-hour webcast, our speaker:
- Provides an overview of the general promotions laws of Georgia;
- Talks about illegal lotteries and gambling and how to structure promotions in Georgia that fall under general promotions exceptions, as well as the “raffle” exception for §501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations;
- Provides practical advice, such as how to avoid an illegal lottery by “changing the elements of the game;” and
Discusses additional considerations, such as official rules, abbreviated rules, advertising your charity’s promotion and fulfilling the prizing.
Presenter: Thomas Federico, Turner Broadcasting
Please note: The webcast video does not sync with the webcast audio due to a technological problem.
Learn about how to legally operate a bingo game as a fundraising event though obtaining a license, following the requirements for operationing, and the proper reporting and record-keeping.
If your nonprofit doesn’t have the proper license from the local sheriff, that raffle you’re holding may be considered illegal gambling in the State of Georgia. Learn how to comply with the law and stay out of trouble.
If you’re interested in holding casino night, poker tournaments, raffles or even bingo to raise money, your fundraiser may be illegal. Learn here how to avoid problems with Georgia’s gambling laws.