Arizona-based Gila River Gaming Enterprises recently announced it will again give away unclaimed jackpots to nonprofit organizations. The company operates three Phoenix-area properties–Lone Butte Casino and Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler and Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino in Laveen Village. Chief Executive Officer Kenneth Manuel said, “It is our privilege to provide these funds to such incredible nonprofit organizations that benefit the lives of Arizonans.”
Gamblers have 180 days to claim their cash. However, the dollar value of vouchers that have not been redeemed within that timeframe is placed in a special account. After the fiscal year, which ends in August, that money is awarded to deserving organizations that have applied for the program.
Gila River does not disclose how much money is collected, nor the groups that receive the funds. Gila River Hotels & Casinos Public Relations Manager Teaya Vicente said, “Last year, we were proud to fund several nonprofit organizations.” She added one beneficiary was the Blackwater School which used the donation to purchase physical education equipment.
In Nevada, which does not offer a similar program, customers did not redeem vouchers for $35 million over five years, according to a 2016 report. Most of that money went to the state.
All Arizona-based nonprofits with a 501(c)3 status are eligible to apply, including those within the Gila River Indian Community. The application deadline is August 18. Nonprofits may contact Gila River Hotels & Casinos Community Liaison Manuel Hernandez for more information at manuel.Hernandez@wingilariver.com.
