In the glittering world of poker, where high stakes and strategic maneuvers are always a highlight, there’s a lesser-known facet that often stays hidden behind the poker face – the generous and philanthropic hearts of poker players.
While poker might be synonymous with concentration, crafty strategies, and massive pots, in the past, the poker community has also consistently demonstrated a remarkable commitment to charitable causes, turning their passion for the game into a force for positive change.
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Poker’s long history of giving back
At the heart of this philanthropic spirit is a simple yet powerful concept: giving back. Poker players, known for their analytical minds and strategic thinking, leverage their successes at the felt to make meaningful contributions to society. This intersection of competitive spirit and a shared desire to make a difference has created a culture of giving within the poker community that is both inspiring and impactful.
One of the most notable avenues through which poker players contribute to charitable causes is through charity poker tournaments. These events, often organized by poker pros and casinos alike, serve as a platform to raise substantial funds for various charitable organizations.
It’s not uncommon to see poker legends and rising stars alike participating in these tournaments, putting their skills to use for a greater purpose. The charitable initiatives supported by poker players are diverse and cover a broad spectrum of causes.
From healthcare and education to disaster relief and veterans’ support, the poker community has left an indelible mark on numerous charitable endeavors. Some players choose to align with specific causes close to their hearts, while others participate in a variety of events to cast a wider net of impact.
In addition to charity tournaments, many poker players make personal contributions from their tournament winnings or create their own charity foundations. Take, for example, the well-known philanthropist and poker player, Dan Smith. Through his charity, the Double Up Drive, Smith has raised millions of dollars for highly effective charities, focusing on global poverty alleviation and effective altruism.
Another shining example is the altruistic efforts of the poker sensation, Liv Boeree. Beyond her impressive poker achievements, Boeree co-founded Raising for Effective Giving (REG), an organization that encourages poker players to pledge a portion of their earnings to highly impactful charities. REG has garnered widespread support within the poker community, reflecting a shared commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
CSOP NJ Poker Series Returns: A Winning Hand for Charity in the Garden State
Last winter, CSOP NJ announced that its charity series was making a comeback in 2024. Over the last few years, this charitable poker series, pioneered by professional poker player Matt Stout, has become a beacon of hope and philanthropy, bringing together poker enthusiasts for a noble cause.
The story behind CSOP is as inspiring as the charitable initiatives it supports. Matt Stout, an accomplished poker pro, drew inspiration from the charitable tournaments of the past, fuelling his vision for creating a platform where poker could be more than just a game—it could be a force for good.
In 2014, Stout turned this vision into reality and established the Charity Series of Poker. Stout says that he started his charity series in 2014 largely because he was in the middle of inking his sponsorship deal with Borgata and knew they’d generously support his philanthropic efforts.
This marriage of poker and philanthropy laid the foundation for an annual series that would unite poker players from all walks of life under the common banner of giving back. CSOP’s comeback in 2024 brings with it a renewed sense of excitement for poker players in New Jersey.
The series has become a staple in the Garden State, attracting both seasoned pros and casual players who share a passion for poker and a commitment to making a positive impact on the community. What sets CSOP apart is its unique approach to charity within the poker landscape. Rather than being just an element of the tournaments, charity is at the very core of CSOP’s existence.
The series collaborates with various charitable organizations, and a portion of the proceeds from each event goes directly to support these causes. This seamless integration of poker and philanthropy has resonated with players and sponsors alike, turning CSOP into a powerful vehicle for charitable giving.
So, what can poker enthusiasts expect from this year’s Charity Series of Poker in Borgata?
Hosted at the iconic Borgata Atlantic City, the charity tournament has been scheduled for 20th January. This charity poker event is not just for the pros; it’s an affordable opportunity for everyone to indulge in the thrill of poker while making a positive impact.
For a buy-in of $125 and a $100 donation, players can join the celebrity event, set to kick off at 8 p.m. with a generous starting stack of 15,000 chips. The excitement doesn’t end there—participants can enhance their stack with add-on options, adding 5,000 chips pre-game for a $50 donation or boosting it by 10,000 chips during the first break for a $100 donation, regardless of their initial chip count.
On-site registration for the charity tournament opened on January 1 and will run until the start of Level 9. And here’s a perk for all CSOP event registrants: a VIP cocktail hour at Level 1 awaits, featuring an open bar and delectable appetizers, setting the stage for an evening of poker and camaraderie.
For poker players who prefer to secure their spot online, the online qualifiers for the 2024 Borgata Winter Poker Open, powered by BetMGM Poker are also available. The BetMGM Poker App has all the details on eligible events, giving interested participants a chance to partake in this exciting poker series from the comfort of their devices.
Final Thoughts
What makes this event truly special is its commitment to charity. Every donation made in the name of CSOP will go towards supporting the incredible work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As the chips shuffle and the cards are dealt, the CSOP NJ Poker Series at Borgata Atlantic City promises an unforgettable night where the spirit of competition meets the joy of giving.
