Author Topic: Bingo Fundraisers Poll: Evil or Good  (Read 2204 times)

5inatrailer

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Bingo Fundraisers Poll: Evil or Good
« on: November 30, 2013, 08:47:24 AM »
Hello, I have 3 kids: 6,4,2.

This week I volunteered at a bingo fundraiser for my eldest's school.  They use the money for field trips, busing, and supplies.

However, I couldn't help but feel extremely guilty at taking all of the money from people who were playing the bingo. There was no one there from even a middle class lifestyle, and seeing them throw down 20's was very disturbing.  I mentioned it a few times in the "change room" and several other parents felt the same way.  I know it's going to a good cause, but I don't feel it was an ethical method of fundraising.  After about 4 hours, we raised about 1000$ from 8 volunteers.

Has anyone else out there felt the same?

Should I just go with it?
On a side note, I loved volunteering at my kids' school twice this week. One as a parent helper and one at the bingo. Made me feel like a superior human for helping out when others didn't.

Catbert

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Re: Bingo Fundraisers Poll: Evil or Good
« Reply #1 on: November 30, 2013, 10:32:32 AM »
Well, I generally think that all gambling (including Bingo) is stupid and boring.  But I don't believe Bingo is any worse than having the children sell over priced gift wrap or popcorn to those same not-so-middle-class parents.  Many probably enjoy the Bingo much more than the tin of popcorn.

 However, if it were me I'd pass on volunteering for fund raising and just do the parent-helper.

Gin

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Re: Bingo Fundraisers Poll: Evil or Good
« Reply #2 on: November 30, 2013, 02:40:57 PM »
Agree with pp.  I would rather have a family night of bingo then buy crappy overpriced wrapping paper, candles, cookie dough, etc.  Does your school collect box tops, Tyson labels, community coffee labels?  If not you should start.  Super easy way for schools to earn money.   You also don't know the people playing may budget x amount for school fundraisers and that is how they chose to spend it. 

5inatrailer

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Re: Bingo Fundraisers Poll: Evil or Good
« Reply #3 on: November 30, 2013, 07:12:24 PM »
Fair enough. I probably freaked out inside my brain because I never gamble, and didn't understand the game.
There was about 50 people in the room, so they collectively lost 40$ each for us to reap the benefit.  Works out to 10$/hr I guess.

Just a first time response to a new experience. Thanks y'all.