Gaming for Good

When was the last time you had a good old-fashioned game night? Whether it was Wii bowling with the family last night or Bunko with the neighbors last month, we’re certain it’s been too long. Here’s why you should consider hosting another game night this weekend…

This Saturday, Oct. 20, thousands of people are playing their favorite games for one simple reason: to heal kids. Extra Life participants can register for free at extra-life.org and play for their local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital by encouraging donations from family and friends. And what better way to ask for their support than by throwing a fun gaming marathon? 

We challenged Drew, a local college student, to do just that. With a very small budget and only a few days to plan, here’s what he came up with—complete with seven tips so you can do the same.

1. Choose a theme.  What party isn’t better with a theme? Drew went with a vintage flair, but you can take it in any direction your heart desires.

2. Invite your friends to play along. The more the merrier! Dare them to endure the entire marathon, or assign them shifts to keep things fresh!

3. Donate on the spot. Make it easy for friends to donate to your chosen Children's Miracle Network Hospital when they arrive by having a laptop or iPad handy and open to your Extra Life fundraising page. Remind them that it’s all for the kids!

4. Play! Mix it up: video games, board games, ‘Hungry Hungry Dinosaurs’… anything goes! If you’re looking for more variety, invite your friends to bring their favorite games too. 

5. Eat! Don’t forget to keep your attendees nourished and hydrated. We recommend keeping plenty of healthy snacks and hydrating liquids on hand too. And it’s totally acceptable to make this a potluck event.

6. Rest! If you need a break, take it! Extra Life is a 24-hour gaming marathon but there are no hard rules on how you get those hours in. Split it up over a week or play as a relay; the important part is that you play and that you raise funds for kids in your community.

7. Pat yourself on the back. You are doing something amazing. You’re not just playing games—you are saving kids’ lives. And that is something to be proud of.