A jackpot win on a slot machine or a trifecta hit at the track at Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack can be life-altering. The renowned casino can change lives in different ways, too.
Through its community-oriented Game Giver program, Wheeling Island gives to numerous worthy causes in the region. Most recently, it presented $17,966 to the United Way of Upper Ohio Valley to benefit local children and families.
There are signs promoting Game Giver on the casino floor that highlight the charity of the month and encourage donations. The program started in 2020 and has raised approximately $165,000 to date, said David Morris, regional director of marketing for Wheeling Island.
“Starting programs like Game Giver allows us to demonstrate our commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. By supporting local service organizations and charitable initiatives, Wheeling Island can build a positive relationship with the community. Additionally, such programs provide an opportunity for the casino to give back and make a significant impact on the lives of individuals or communities in need.”
Just where does the funds go?
Wheeling Tropical island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack is 1 of 4 business casinos in West Virginia. The mid-sized casino has more than 1,000 slot machines and 30 tables, as well as a poker room and greyhound races.
The United Way of Upper Ohio Valley has an office in Wheeling and serves five counties in West Virginia and two in Ohio. The outreach helps provide resources and funding to various organizations, including the Brooke County Public Library, Girl Scouts of Black Diamond, and Youth Services Systems, among others, Morris said.
“We receive feedback on the positive outcomes and benefits resulting from the assistance they receive, such as improved resources, enhanced services, and the ability to reach a larger audience. The act of giving, regardless of the amount, can have a significant impact on the lives of those in need.
“Seeing people’s willingness to give and support charitable activities often inspires others and encourages a culture of giving, which can create a positive ripple effect within the community.”
Recently, Wheeling Island donated nearly $7,000 to the Salvation Army for Happy Land. It allowed kids to attend the summer camp free of charge. Morris said the Game Changer philosophy is that even small donations can have a big impact.
“Donations made to programs like Game Changer showcase the kindness and compassion of individuals who contribute. The local organizations we support are truly grateful we have chosen them and express their gratitude for the casino’s involvement.”
How to be described as a Game Rappeler
There are a couple of main ways for people to get involved in the Game Changer program. One is for individuals to drop off uncashed casino or racing vouchers in the donation box on the property. Maybe you hit it big with a bet on the Belmont Stakes. Or perhaps you’re walking out of Wheeling Island with a little something extra. If you donate, you’ll get more.
Another way Game Changer raises funds is through the age-old tradition of letting their employees have a day off from the dress code. For a donation of $5 that goes to Game Changer, Wheeling Island associates get the opportunity to wear more comfortable attire, Morris said.
“Wheeling Island employees are proud to be part of the Game Changer program and whole-heartedly support it. The opportunity for associates to contribute to the Game Changer program by donating through activities like paying a bit to wear jeans on certain days creates a sense of unity and purpose among the employees. It fosters a positive work environment and a shared commitment to making a positive impact in the community.”
Wheeling Tropical isle on the rise
Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack remains one of the most popular attractions in West Virginia. Along with the casino, the complex features a 151-room hotel and an event floor with seating for 1,500.
There is live greyhound racing every Wednesday through Sunday.
Additionally, there are still open slot machines for the Great American Poker Tournament with a grand prize of $300,000.
Darren Cooper was born and raised in Southern Louisiana, just a short pirogue trip away from New Orleans. He started his writing career at the New Orleans Times-Picayune and has been an author and journalist in New Jersey since 1998. He has won fourteen statewide press awards and earned his first Associated Press Sports Editors Top Ten award in 2022.
