History

Alpha Tau Omega Casino Night will benefit the James Center through the Tressel Family Fund for Cancer Prevention Research. The James Center's mission is to improve the lives of those affected by cancer through innovation in research, education, and patient care. Recently, the U.S. News & World Report recognized The James Cancer Center Hospital as one of the best cancer centers in the United States. Over the past seven years, Alpha Tau Omega and many generous sponsors have raised over $100,000 to benefit this already successful foundation.

The event began in 2004, and continued with the rechartering of the Beta Omega Chapter of Alpha Tau Omega at The Ohio State University in 2005. Now, after seven years, it continues to be one of the premier philanthropies at The Ohio State University. Casino Night is a formal attire event, featuring a variety of casino style games, such as blackjack, roulette, and craps, among others. The estimated 900 guests play these casino-style games with a set amount of fake money and exchange their "winnings" for raffle tickets to try to win any number of prizes at the conclusion of the night. Past prizes have included cruises, vacations, spa treatments, golf rounds, a variety of gift certificates, jewelry, and autographed sports memorabilia.

This year the goal is to improve on the success of past donations. Every year we have increased the amount donated to the Tressel Fund for Cancer Research, and this year we expect no less. We have a personal goal to aid the fight against cancer, and a monetary goal to donate $25,000 to the Tressel Family Fund after covering the costs of the event. Some costs include venue fees, casino equipment rental, and hors d'oeuvres, among others.

We believe this event is a perfect way to unite Greek Life at Ohio State and show everyone the potential of the Greek community. Casino Night offers students the opportunity to enjoy a sober, classy night away from the bars, and provides those in attendance the satisfaction of raising money for charity. Alpha Tau Omega takes pride in giving back to the community, and our Casino Night provides the perfect way for everyone to "go all in" for charity and help raise money for cancer research.