Does anyone have any tips for a Poker Night Fundraising event?

Answer 1

Have a Strip or at least Topless Poker Night. You'll raise more moolah and have a great time.

Answer 2

There are several good sites that will explain how to do it. Just do a Yahoo search for "running a poker tournament".

Although Ohio doesn't allow most gambling, local charities hold many holdem tournaments in my area. Usually very successful.

Usual buy-in is about $30 per player, which seems to be the right amount for our area (enough to interest good players but not too much to discourage novice players), plus $20 optional add-on. The first $30 goes into the prize pool, the add-on all goes to the charity.

Sometimes a little food is provided (most of it donated by local vendors or homemade by volunteers).

Rules are "casino standard" with modifications to suit the locale or audience. I play 5-7 times a week in my area and always have a good time for a modest cost. I do it for fun, not to pay the bills, although I usually win enough to break even or better.

One recommendation: Never serve alcohol. Although it may increase your audience, you'll regret it when someone upchucks onto the table or starts a fight. Seems to happen everytime.

Good luck.