ESA Foundation Raises $1 Million in Donations

The Entertainment Software Association's charity fundraising event, A Nite to Unite for Charity, raked in over $1 million in donations towards children's hospitals, according to the industry trade group. The bulk of the funds came from the formal dinner, which honored filmmaker George Lucas for his contributions to the game industry, alongside some major online auctions also contributing to the figure. The live charity auction items at Nite To Unite ranged from the smaller (gift baskets) to the major (a VIP trip to the World Poker Tour finals, an exclusive party at the Nintendo World Store in New York, and even a trip to the Playboy Mansion), all receiving major bids from senior industry figures. "We are so gratified that members of the game community helped us set a new fundraising and attendance record at this year’s event," said ESA president Douglas Lowenstein. "This generous outpouring only serves to strengthen the industry’s continuing commitment to help America’s children, and will allow us to make a real difference in the lives of many." Beneficiaries of the ESA Foundation in 2005 include Web Wise Kids, National Students Against Violence Everywhere, Working Achievement Values Education, and PAX. Over 900 guests attended the formal event, marking the largest gathering since the fundraising dinner began.