Gambling Firms Contribute to Volunteer Week

Many of the USA's leading commercial gaming companies have been busy participating in community service activities organized by the American Gaming Association, as part of National Volunteer Week this week.

Gaming companies set example

Year after year, gaming companies demonstrate their commitment to corporate social responsibility, AGA president Frank J. Fahrenkopf said as part of a statement launching this year's All In for Giving and Volunteering campaign.

To understand what he is talking about, here are just a few of the activities conducted this week: MGM employees in Las Vegas have been planting trees and cleaning up at the Desert Wildlife Refuge; WMS Gaming employees have been donating with children's charities in four states; IGT employees have been conducting a number of activities, including assisting the Salvation Army with Hurricane Sandy relief.

One may not always think of gaming companies in this light, but the examples shown above are just the tip of the iceberg in a movement that shows the close links between casino operators, software firms and philanthropy.

Research reveals commitment

Giving is not just limited to special events. This week the AGA also released a report called "A Commitment to Philanthropy", which shows that volunteering and charitable contributions are a central part of the gaming entertainment industry.

According to the report, gaming companies contributed $135.78 million to charitable causes in the past year, $116.93 million of which came as direct cash contributions. Overall, 36,525 gaming industry employees participated in 1,670 volunteer events in the past 12 months, contributing 298,484 volunteer hours to non-profits and charities.