Giving gamers – How gamers help people through charity and support groups

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If we pay too much attention to the mainstream news, you will come away thinking gamers are all toxic and committed to causing chaos. But we know that’s not true. Games are a great source of fun and entertainment, but they also fulfill a more important role in our societies. They bring people together. They create lasting friendships. And games and the gamers who play them support people through charities and support groups. Today we want to highlight some of the ways the good people in our community are lifting others up.
Charities
Games Done Quick
Games Done Quick is a series of game marathons where speedrunners raise money for charity. The format is simple: Speedrunners take it in turns demonstrating their speedrunning prowess in different games. The events last for seven days, and people can tune in on Twitch to be part of the fun and, of course, donate. This year the summer event was held online and raised a staggering 2.3 million for the Doctors Without Borders charity. If you’re unfamiliar with the charity, it aims to provide life-saving medical treatment to those in need. They are most known for providing life-saving care in dangerous conflict zones or countries affected by endemic diseases. To date, Games Done Quick has raised over 28 million dollars for various charities.
Extra Life
Extra Life unites players from around the world to raise money for their local children’s hospital. Players anywhere get to make a difference in their neighborhoods.
According to their website, players can take part by following these simple steps:
- Sign up – You sign up and pledge to play games from your home, picking the day that works best for you.
- Fundraise – You ask your friends, family, and the wider community to donate to your cause. You can also recruit others to join your team.
- “Play games, heal kids” – You play games and raise money for your local children’s hospital!
Gamers Outreach and Gamers For Giving
Gamers Outreach is a charity founded in 2007, committed to providing gaming equipment and technology to kids in hospitals. Hospitals can be scary and lonely places for kids, and a little bit of gaming joy can go a long way. They are currently helping over 1.25 million children every year with their initiatives.
Gamers for Giving is a fundraising event to help support Gamers Outreach programs. Games can support the movement by donating directly, fundraising through streaming, or spreading the word on social media.





