Way back in 2009, I found a website. It wasn’t just a website, it was an event. The page hosted a culture, an excitement and a need that I was drawn to. In 2009 I found the Mario Marathon. Mario Marathon plays to benefit Child’s Play Charity. This idea set me off and got me excited for something other than just sitting and playing games.
I’ve been tied to Children’s Miracle Network for a long time through Phi Kappa Theta and I figured that there had to be a way I could do the same thing as Mario Marathon for CMN. And that is when I discovered ExtraLife.
So in 2010 and 2011, I wanted to participate. Unfortunately, I had no idea what I was doing, how I was supposed to raise money or really even how video games were tied to a charity. By the time 2012 rolled around, I was ready. I moved to Kansas City where I met up with a few members of Archetype Gaming. That year I raised $12 for CMN. I loved that feeling. I contributed. I helped. Then in 2013 I made a goal of $100 and raised $230. This year I have set my goal at $500.
Archetype Gaming has been around for a long time and has been playing with ExtraLife for the past couple of years. Together, they have raised over $34,000 for Children’s Miracle Network and this year alone they have set their goal at $50,000.
Every year, to raise money and awareness, Archetype Gaming hosts an ExtraLife event. It is a giant gaming convention in Kansas City that has grown exponentially every year. For the most up-to-date info on the event, check out the Facebook event.
There are many ways to become more educated, participate, donate and get involved. If you need any more information, please let me know and I would be happy to help out!
