Tourney Creating Poker Gear for Non-Profit Poker Tourney... (1 Viewer)

[jdom1023]

My neighbor is the local chapter leader for a a volunteer-run non-profit organization. He is wanting to start an annual poker tournament where half of the buy-in will go towards the charity and the balance would be given out as payouts to the top finishers. Here is what I am looking to find out:

1. He wants to get custom designed poker chips (likely ceramic chips or possibly China clay type chips that we could label)

2. He also would like to get a custom table topper with the non-profit organization's logo/slogan etc on it. Some like these: https://www.pokerchipforum.com/pcf-store/full-size-topper.7/

I'm looking to get feedback from the best companies/vendors to use. I can get the artwork done...I just need direction on best companies and opinions on best products to use.

Thanks,
Dominic

 

[buzzmonkey]

I'd recommend consulting a lawyer first. If this game is illegal it might put the charity at risk.

 

[jdom1023]

Thanks for that insight. We have discussed it some, but will seek more counsel. The payouts might not be in the form of cash...but rather prizes. So..not sure how that would affect the legality of it.

 

[buzzmonkey]

Thanks for that insight. We have discussed it some, but will seek more counsel. The payouts might not be in the form of cash...but rather prizes. So..not sure how that would affect the legality of it.

In terms of materials, @BR Pro Poker is probably the highest quality ceramic with a fast turnaround. The also make custom dealer buttons.

There will be less expensive options that others are probably more experienced with that may work for you as well.

 

[doublebooyah85]

I'd recommend consulting a lawyer first. If this game is illegal it might put the charity at risk.

Most states it’s legal. Biggest mistakes people make is paying the dealers and not keeping good records. Can’t accept tips either. Must be true volunteers. However an attorney is damn good recommendation!

That being said @justincarothers and @rjdev7 are the two vendors to look into!

 

[buzzmonkey]

Most states it’s legal. Biggest mistakes people make is paying the dealers and not keeping good records. Can’t accept tips either. Must be true volunteers. However an attorney is damn good recommendation!

That being said @justincarothers and @rjdev7 are the two vendors to look into!

I'm not sure a 50/50 poker tournament would be legal in most states. At least not without a permit.

 

[buzzmonkey]

Looks like it's a no go if you want to hold it in Tennessee, at least from a legal standpoint.

https://sos.tn.gov/charities/guides/charitable-gaming-guide-faqs

 

[jdom1023]

Well...that should close the thread. ;-) Thanks for sharing that info!

 

[Kensco]

I donated these to a local charity game this year.

I used @BR Pro Poker. I was extremely happy with the buttons and they were very well received by the participants.



"Casino Nights" are legal in your area. You should still consult an attorney. If your friend's non-profit is a qualifying charity you should be able find a way to combine a "casino night" with a raffle or other allowed money making game to benefit the charity.

I hope you all can work it out. Good luck!

 

[allforcharity]

The initial costs may end up more significant than you might think. Consider doing at least semi-annual if not quarterly fundraisers.

 

[doublebooyah85]

https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov...-for-Business/Policy-201-Games-of-Chance.aspx

Here is some more ohio laws. Another caveat is no expenses may be deducted. Chips, tables, food, dealers, drinks and you can’t tip dealers! Anything over $600 you must keep records for 3 years including SS#.

Also limits you where you can host event. Gov building, fraternal club, or owned by the non profit. And no more than 5 days a year!

 

[Salbino]

There is a company in NJ that does exactly that. They find fire departments, PBA associations, VFW's, American Legions, etc. to host fundraiser poker tournaments and they come set it up and the money is split between the fundraiser and paying cash prizes to the winners. https://www.mikespokertables.com/