Are you a gamer who wants to make a difference in the world? Do you want to use your gaming skills to help those in need? If so, you're in luck! There are many ways to use video games for charity, and in this article, we'll explore some of the best methods.
What is Gaming for a Cause?
Gaming for a cause is the act of playing video games to raise money for charity. This can be done in many different ways, such as by participating in charity gaming events, streaming your gameplay on platforms like Twitch, or donating a portion of your gaming profits to charity.
Why Gaming for a Cause Matters
Gaming for a cause matters because it allows gamers to use their skills and passion for gaming to make a difference in the world. By playing video games for charity, gamers can raise money for important causes, such as medical research, disaster relief, and education.
Gaming for a cause also helps to break down stereotypes about gamers. For many years, gamers have been stereotyped as being lazy, unproductive, and antisocial. However, by using video games for charity, gamers can show that they are capable of making a positive impact on the world.
How to Use Video Games for Charity
Participate in Charity Gaming Events
One of the best ways to use video games for charity is to participate in charity gaming events. These events are often organized by charities or gaming companies and involve gamers coming together to play games and raise money for a cause.
For example, Extra Life is a charity gaming event that takes place every year. Gamers sign up to participate and then play video games for 24 hours straight to raise money for children's hospitals. In 2020, Extra Life raised over $16 million for children's hospitals across North America.
Stream Your Gameplay on Twitch
Another way to use video games for charity is to stream your gameplay on platforms like Twitch. Twitch is a popular streaming platform that allows gamers to stream their gameplay live to an audience.
By streaming your gameplay on Twitch, you can encourage your viewers to donate to a charity of your choice. You can also set up donation incentives, such as playing a certain game or wearing a silly hat, to encourage viewers to donate more.
Donate a Portion of Your Gaming Profits to Charity
If you're a professional gamer or make money from your gaming content, you can donate a portion of your profits to charity. This can be done through platforms like Patreon or by setting up a donation page on your website.
For example, popular YouTuber Markiplier has raised over $4 million for charity through his videos and live streams. He encourages his viewers to donate to charity by setting up donation incentives and donating a portion of his profits to charity.
Examples of Gaming for a Cause
Games Done Quick
Games Done Quick is a bi-annual charity gaming event that raises money for various charities. Gamers come together to speedrun games and raise money for a cause. In 2021, Games Done Quick raised over $2.7 million for the Prevent Cancer Foundation.
St. Jude PLAY LIVE
St. Jude PLAY LIVE is a charity gaming event that raises money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Gamers can sign up to participate and then stream their gameplay on Twitch to raise money for the hospital. In 2020, St. Jude PLAY LIVE raised over $11 million for the hospital.
AbleGamers
AbleGamers is a charity that helps people with disabilities play video games. They provide customized gaming setups and equipment to people with disabilities so they can enjoy gaming like everyone else. They also advocate for accessibility in the gaming industry.
Tips for Using Video Games for Charity
If you're interested in using video games for charity, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Choose a cause that you're passionate about. This will help you stay motivated and engaged in the fundraising process.
- Set a fundraising goal. This will give you something to work towards and help you measure your progress.
- Use social media to promote your fundraising efforts. Share your fundraising page on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
- Thank your donors. Make sure to thank everyone who donates to your fundraising efforts. This will help build goodwill and encourage people to donate in the future.
Conclusion
Gaming for a cause is a great way to use your gaming skills to make a difference in the world. Whether you participate in charity gaming events, stream your gameplay on Twitch, or donate a portion of your gaming profits to charity, there are many ways to use video games for good. So why not give it a try? You might be surprised at how much of an impact you can make.