Gamers Outreach

Gamers Outreach is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides entertainment and recreation to hospitalized children through video games. The organization's mission is to restore a sense of normalcy and joy for children and their families during hospital stays, believing that play is a crucial part of the healing process. The business operates on a non-profit model, relying on fundraising, donations, and partnerships to support its programs. Its primary clients are pediatric hospitals and healthcare facilities worldwide.

The organization was founded in 2007 by Zach Wigal when he was a high school student. The initial catalyst was the cancellation of a Halo 2 tournament he had organized. Determined to create a positive impact, Wigal and his friends launched a new event in 2008 called Gamers for Giving, a LAN party and tournament to raise money for charity, which led to the official establishment of the Gamers Outreach Foundation. Wigal's personal passion for gaming fueled the organization's evolution from a local event organizer to a global charity. While initially focused on fundraising events, the mission expanded after partnering with C.S. Mott Children's Hospital in 2009, where the need for accessible, bedside activities for patients became clear.

Gamers Outreach is best known for its flagship program, the "GO Kart" (Gamers Outreach Kart). These are portable, medical-grade video game kiosks designed specifically for the hospital environment. Each GO Kart is equipped with a gaming console, monitor, controllers, and a selection of games, allowing them to be easily and safely transported to children who are unable to leave their rooms. Beyond the GO Karts, the charity runs other programs including "Player 2," a volunteer initiative that pairs gamers with hospitals to provide technical support and play games with patients, and "Save Point," which uses high-tech vending machines to distribute games and toys to children. Funding is primarily generated through its annual Gamers for Giving streaming marathon and LAN party, corporate sponsorships, and individual donations, which cover the costs of building, deploying, and maintaining the GO Karts and other programs.

Keywords: Gamers Outreach, non-profit, charity, pediatric care, hospitalized children, video games, therapeutic play, recreation therapy, GO Karts, Gamers for Giving, Zach Wigal, patient experience, child life, hospital programs, gaming community, corporate social responsibility, healthcare entertainment, digital playgrounds, volunteer programs, in-hospital support