The Founding Vision: Giving Back Through Poker
Poker Gives was founded in late 2009 by some of the most respected names in the poker world: Linda Johnson, Jan Fisher, Lisa Tenner, and the late Mike Sexton. Their vision was simple yet profound—to create a platform through which poker players and the broader poker industry could give back to charity. Since its inception, Poker Gives has become a significant force in raising funds for various causes, with its reach expanding each year within the Las Vegas area. The organization’s mission is to assist families, youth, military veterans, and homeless individuals, providing them with the resources and support they need.
Leadership and Administration: Carrying the Torch
Critically, Poker Gives is an entirely volunteer-run endeavor. That’s to say that 100% of all funds donated to the organization get funneled towards those in need. Anyone working in or with Poker Gives is volunteering their time and energy to the cause.
In 2015, Lupe Soto took over the administration of Poker Gives, continuing the founders’ tradition with passion and dedication. In recent years, her daughter Angela (Garcia) has also taken a prominent role, embracing the mission of giving back with the same enthusiasm. Together, they have diversified the ways in which money is raised, including private donations from poker players, auctions, poker tournaments, home game fundraisers, and via other creative activities such as silent auctions held at the biannual Women in Poker Hall of Fame ceremony.
Four years later, the torch was passed once again to Barbara Zangaro Jones who now guides the non-profit’s day-to-day operations. Barbara’s dedication to helping the homeless in Las Vegas is unparalleled. She coordinates weekly meal programs, recruits volunteers from the poker community, and oversees various initiatives aimed at supporting the youth and other vulnerable populations. Her tireless work and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in Poker Gives’ success, and she continues to inspire others to join in the mission of giving back.
Very excited to announce Barbara Zangaro Jones as Poker Gives new appointed Executive Director! https://t.co/H96cwi25yT pic.twitter.com/v9vtctV6l7
— Poker Gives (@PokerGives) January 2, 2019
A Community Effort: Contributions from the Poker World
Poker Gives has garnered tremendous support from the poker community, with notable players and personalities participating in its charitable efforts. Though they don’t publicly advertise it, many players from some regular high-stakes poker games around Las Vegas often donate funds to assist with the charity’s overhead costs.
In addition to financial donations, many well-known poker players and personalities have given their time and energy to volunteer. For instance, Chris Wallace, Brandon Shack-Harris, Matt Waxman, and WPT Executive Tour Director Matt Savage are just a few of the prominent figures who have personally gotten involved at the weekly Monday night food distribution at the CARE center on Foremaster Lane.
I’m proud to share that over the past 2.5 years, Cardplayer Lifestyle has facilitated the donation of thousands of dollars to Poker Gives through contributions made by players at our Mixed Game Festivals. These funds have gone a long way towards supporting the organization’s initiatives.
Thank you @cardplayerlife @PokerLifeMedia for sponsoring last nights serving! pic.twitter.com/3CdJag34Pb
— Poker Gives (@PokerGives) March 28, 2023
Personal Stories: A Glimpse into the Heart of Poker Gives
The impact of Poker Gives extends beyond just the people they help—it touches the lives of those who volunteer. Last winter my father, Dr. Josef Strazynski, volunteered a couple hours of his time at the CARE Center. Reflecting on his experience, he told me “Las Vegas is a place we all think of visiting for entertainment and to play poker. We can sometimes forget that it is also a proper city, filled with real people facing real problems, like poverty. I was privileged to see with my own eyes the wonderful work Poker Gives does when Linda invited me to join in distributing food and essentials for hundreds of homeless people. It was a stunning sight, with about a dozen of us volunteers dispensing hot food, drinks, clothing, blankets, and everything else people needed to survive the cold night.”
Each Monday, just as the food distribution is set to begin, a heartfelt benediction is recited among the troupe of volunteers, stressing gratitude and offering a blessing to those in need. Sadly, that need is great and it persists year round. So, too, rain or shine, whether in the sweltering summer desert heat or chilly winter nights, Poker Gives remains active, never taking a leave of absence.
“Over the 15 years that Poker Gives has been active, we’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of people less fortunate here in Las Vegas, and hundreds of volunteers have helped pitch in to assist the cause,” said Linda Johnson. “Each time a new volunteer joins us, I see how they’re so profoundly impacted. Few endeavors are as rewarding as knowing you’re making a difference in someone’s life. Please come to the CARE Center yourself and bring someone along with you to experience the gift of giving,” she added.
This past summer, I had the opportunity to participate in a Monday food distribution. Also among the approximately 20 volunteers that week was Chris Read, who shared with me that she had participated on at least half a dozen occasions. She praised the organization’s founders and administrators, saying that “they do an amazing service for the Vegas homeless. I do my best to show up and volunteer each time I visit Las Vegas. It’s the least I can do to help the community when I’m there and able.”
Chris went on to exhort her fellow poker players to also make the effort to “build it into your poker trip itinerary” and volunteer to participate if you happen to be in Las Vegas on a Monday night.
Outdoor sleeping arrangements for hundreds of unhoused individuals in Las Vegas
Ongoing Support: Companies and Community Partners
Poker Gives’ efforts are bolstered by the generous donations of major companies and restaurants. Pepsi, Red Lobster, Whole Foods, Olive Garden, and Fleming’s Steakhouse are among the many that regularly contribute food and supplies. These donations also often include toiletries, water, clothing, baby formula, back-to-school supplies, shoes, and more.
One stalwart standout contributor is Espy Enriquez, who frequently cooks up trays upon trays of food using the donated raw materials. Such efforts ensure that the organization can consistently provide for those in need, regardless of the season or weather.
“Each week we often see many of the same faces in line to receive food, clothing and other supplies at the CARE Center. And we always greet them with a smile and some warm words. Seeing them smile warms our hearts anew every time. By the same token, there are so many people who also help behind the scenes each and every week. We don’t know where we would be without our amazing regular volunteers, and we’re so thankful for the time and effort they devote to helping out,” said Jan Fisher. “Please come to the CARE center yourself at 200 East Foremaster. We will be meeting at 6:15pm for now and will change it to 7:00pm in the fall or winter,” she added.
The Call to Action: Volunteer and Make a Difference
As mentioned, Poker Gives operates every Monday evening, except for the first Monday of the month, even in extreme weather conditions. Volunteers always make the effort to show up and help, including on Christmas mornings at 6 AM. Like any volunteer-powered organization, they’re always on the lookout for more helping hands to join in the effort. Volunteering with Poker Gives is a tremendously uplifting experience, one that not only benefits the community but also enriches the lives of those who serve.
In the words of one volunteer, “Participating in Poker Gives is more than just giving back—it’s about becoming part of something larger than yourself, a community bound by compassion and a shared mission to make the world a better place.”
Here’s How You Can Get Involved
If you’re inspired by the work Poker Gives does, please favorably consider this appeal to get involved. Whether through donations or volunteering, your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most. For more information, visit their website or check out their Facebook Page for updates on upcoming events and opportunities to help.
Have nothing to do on Monday or Tuesday evenings? Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life? Come serve food with us! 7pm 200 E Foremaster. You’ll be amazed how good it makes you feel! pic.twitter.com/G6FzYIZQVC
— Poker Gives (@PokerGives) October 26, 2022
