New Online Raffle Options Increase Fundraising Opportunities for Licensed Charities
To make life easier for charities and their supporters, the Ontario government is providing more options to fundraise through online raffles.
Today, Lindsey Park, Parliamentary Assistant to the Attorney General joined representatives and team alumni from MLSE Foundation, Jays Care Foundation and Ottawa Senators Foundation at the Scotiabank Arena to announce changes that give charities more flexibility when holding raffles.
Administered by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), these changes will allow Ontarians to support charities through a wider variety of online and in-person electronic raffles, including 50/50 draws and Catch the Ace. People of legal age in Ontario will also be able to purchase raffle tickets during a game or event, even if they are not there in person. Additionally, AGCO licensed charities will be able to pick winners and award prizes electronically through online platforms.
“Raffles are important fundraising opportunities for charities,” said Park. “It should be easy and convenient for people to participate. The expansion of online raffles will give charities more options and allow people to easily support causes that are important to them and their communities.”
“Our government is making life easier for charities and people who support them,” said Attorney General Caroline Mulroney. “We are proud to work with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario as they support new technologies for raffles that modernize charitable fundraising opportunities.”
These changes will provide more opportunities for charity fundraising and offer greater convenience for Ontarians while ensuring that raffles continue to be conducted safely, securely and with integrity.
Quick Facts
The first phase of the electronic raffles was launched in 2017 by the AGCO and increased fundraising opportunities for charities while streamlining the administration of raffles. Phase two came into effect in December 2018 and provides charities with greater flexibility for running raffles.
To date, 2,000 electronic raffles have been held across Ontario through phase one of the initiative.
Through the AGCO, charities are able to apply for a licence to sell electronic raffle tickets, select winners and distribute prizes electronically, including online.
Additional Resources
Learn more about online raffles
Quotes
“We are pleased to be able to provide Ontario’s charities and religious organizations greater flexibility and modernized options for conducting raffles. These organizations play a significant role supporting important causes and local communities.”
Jean Major
Chief Executive Officer and Registrar, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
“MLSE has been rapidly evolving our digital capabilities to engage our fans in unique and meaningful ways. Now, our fans have the opportunity to support our charitable programs by purchasing 50/50 tickets online or through their mobile device. This makes it possible for MLSE Foundation to reach fans watching the game outside of our venues and aligns perfectly with MLSE’s fan-engagement strategies.”
Tanya Mruck
Executive Director, MLSE Foundation
“Ontario Charitable Gaming Association represents charities and not-for-profits that fundraise through charitable gaming. We are very pleased with the expansion of the electronic raffles initiative as this will provide opportunities for the thousands of organizations that rely on raffles to assist with providing services in communities across Ontario. We greatly appreciate the work of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario in developing a framework that both supports charities fundraising efforts and eases administrative burdens.”
Lynn Cassidy
Executive Director, Ontario Charitable Gaming Association
“Giving sports fans across the province the convenience and ability to be a part of the draw and purchase raffle tickets outside of traditional arenas and stadiums allows for more players, larger prizes and most importantly, a bigger impact for the communities we support.”
Danielle Robinson
President and CEO, Ottawa Senators Foundation
“This announcement will have a significant impact on our organization’s ability to raise funds through our 50/50 program and will support the growth of outcomes-based sport for development programming for children and youth from all across Ontario.”
Robert Witchel
Executive Director, Jays Care Foundation
Author: Pete Fisher
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