December Spotlight: Elmira College Red Cross Club

Cade Herold is shown here livestreaming Rocket League as part of the Elmira College Red Cross Club’s Live Stream Video Game Fundraiser for Disaster Relief.

In September, the Elmira College Red Cross Club took a creative, modern approach to fundraising. Using the Live Stream Gaming activity guide, the Club partnered with Elmira College’s eSports team to host a virtual fundraiser benefiting the Red Cross’ disaster relief efforts. While players streamed their Rocket League, Fortnite, League of Legends, or Overwatch gameplay, Club members thanked donors for their generosity, shared why the Red Cross was important to them, and related how the donations would help those impacted by the recent wildfires and hurricanes. In total, the Elmira College Red Cross Club raised $2000. Participant Cade Herold said, “The players and community showed the world that despite being small, we can make big change. Hopefully that inspires more people to donate.”

For everyone who wants to host a live stream video game fundraiser, Club President Bianca Palese recommends testing the streaming platform and donation link at least one day before to make sure everything works. Advertising the event to the community is also key. “If you get the support of someone with a lot of followers and direct his/her fans to your fundraiser, you will get a lot of donations.”

This outstanding group of Red Crossers demonstrates how youth can utilize technology to overcome the challenges of COVID-19 in an entertaining and inclusive way. Thank you, Elmira College Red Cross Club!