HOPE of East Central Illinois Binga Fundraiser (Erin Holcomb)

As a student , I volunteered at a Binga fundraiser to raise money for HOPE of East Central Illinois.  This fundraiser tapped into the resources of those in the area, by inviting them to play Binga and eat food, while raising money for HOPE.  One thing that stood out to me about the fundraiser was how much money the individuals organizing put into it.  In our class, we have often come back to the concept that time is one of the most valuable commodities for disadvantaged families.  I was struck with how fortunate the recipients of this fundraiser were because they would never have the means or the time to raise money for their own benefit.  Those who need aid the most, often are not able to help themselves. 

While I was at the fundraiser I helped prepare the prizes for the winners of the Binga games.  I networked with one of the women organizing the fundraiser and her husband, and I was able to look at how the Binga games were organized and how they recruited sponsors and donations for the Longaberger baskets they has as prizes.  Through talking with those organizing the fundraiser, I became much more aware of what HOPE of East Central Illinois does and how it can be helped.  I also learned that a Binga fundraiser, if done properly, can be quite successful!  They served Sloppy Joes and tacos-in-a-bag, and sold baked goods such as cookies and brownies that were donated by EIU FCS classes. 

The money raised (thousands of dollars!), will be used for fun summer activities for children who live in the shelter or currently live in abusive homes.  It might be used to put on summer camps, or even to take them to Six Flags.  I think that these benefits for the children outline another key concept learned in out FCS class.  Social aid providers need to think about the emotional wellness of families in need, not just the physical needs they have.  If given enough money, physical needs such as housing and food can be met fairly easily, but the emotional well-being of a child or parent can still be “disadvantaged.”  HOPE provides housing, outreach, prevention, and education to help individuals live non-violent lives.  This organization has a huge impact on the community, through their emergency shelter, transitional living options, and educational website and other programs. 

The greatest take home lesson that I learned from this experience was how much money one can raise with an efficient fundraiser.  The Binga fundraiser had very little clean-up, and if one is able to recruit lots of donations, it can be very successful!  The food supplies were all donated, the prizes were sponsored by businesses and individuals, there is a large demographic of people willing to pat to play Binga and support a good cause.  I enjoyed helping out at the fundraiser, and was very thrilled when I found out that the money would be going to services for children who have been abused.