Kindersley’s Kinder Kollege recently expanded their fundraising horizons and hosted their first ever poker tournament, raising over $3000 in the process. The event was a welcomed change as many of the participants praised the idea, stating it was a great way to get out, have some fun, all while raising money for a valued service within the community.

Thirty-two players registered for the tournament, with many taking advantage of the option to buy back in, which not only extended their seat at the poker table, but raised additional money for the program.

The tournament, which got underway by approximately 8:00, wrapped up with the top three splitting the winnings three ways just after 1:00 in the morning. Rick Fries, Holly Kurysh and Nick Kozicki were the three poker winners and took home just over $450 each, yet the big winner of the night was the Kinder Kollege.

Jodi Geddes, director at Kinder Kollege, stated between the poker tournament buy-ins, beverage sales, 50/50 and raffle tickets, Kinder Kollege brought in $3700, which included the 50/50 winner, Patrick Brick, donating his portion of $245 back to Kinder Kollege.

Geddes said the night was a big success and people were already asking when the next one would be held.

“We wanted to bring something different to the community and everyone seemed to quite enjoy it. We are working on planning our Ladies Night Out fundraiser next, but we had someone ask that night if we could have a poker tournament every month,” laughed Geddes, stating although many would likely enjoy it, a monthly poker tournament isn’t on their docket quite yet.

The money raised from the poker event will go towards numerous items for the program, that look to enhance the child's learning and learning experience.

“Every month there is a lot of stuff, whether it’s filling the sensory bins or outdoor equipment, we have inside activities with a little kitchen centre and a little bookshelf, so there’s always stuff that we are looking to raise money for and the poker night will help with all of it.”

Kinder Kollege is a childcare program for kids from 6 months-of-age up to 12 years old and currently has the capacity to accept upwards of 25 kids, of which, Geddes said they have consistently been close to, if not at, full enrolment.

Geddes said although the poker fundraiser was a success, it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of their sponsors, volunteers and of course players.