There are many forms of charitable gaming allowed in most states and provinces. Charitable gaming is usually regulated by government, so you must check your local regulations if you plan to  raise money for charity in this way. Types of charitable gaming include lotteries and raffles, including variations like 50-50 draws and sports pools, pull tickets, casinos, and bingos.

There are many regulations that must be met before a charity can engage in any of these activities. In many jurisdictions, the charitable gaming activity must be licensed by the government.  The type of license varies with the size and type of gaming activity. Government websites often provide the information necessary to help a charity determine if it might qualify for a gaming license. 

Some forms of charitable gaming, like large lotteries, require the charity to make a substantial investment before the activity is started for the purchase of prizes and marketing costs. Other forms of charitable gaming can be done with a minimal amount of investment. Finding sponsors for prizes can be a good way to lower costs.

There are new forms of charitable gaming that are emerging, like contests that can be entered with text messaging or online.   

Charitable Gaming Summary

When to Do It small raffles may be done any time larger lotteries should be done when no one else is in market availability of license may determine timing of your gaming activity	What You Need money to buy prizes or find a donor willing to give prizes license from regulators funds for advertising or volunteers to sell tickets, work at bingos, etc.
Why You Do It can develop into regular source of undesignated income may fund special projects opportunity for publicity and media attention	Results to Expect best to do a feasibility study to determine results before making major investments  results may also depend on timing    possible large returns