by Colonel Joe Morris, Director of Veteran and Fraternal Relations at Arrow International

Hoosier veteran and fraternal club members now have a new, modern and innovative tool in their toolbox to preserve their legacy and support the communities they serve through charitable gaming.

With a long and storied history within veteran service organizations (VSOs) dating back to the mid-20th century, these organizations have used paper pull tabs to raise funds for student scholarships, veteran assistance programs, community events and facility upkeep. These games, often played at American Legion posts, VFW halls or other community and social events, are not just about revenue, they foster camaraderie among veterans and community members alike.

Unfortunately, attendance at traditional bingo nights has declined and younger generations are less inclined to engage with paper pull tab games, preferring digital, virtual and mobile experiences. As a result, some VSOs have even been forced to close their doors due to a lack of engaged members.

But the tide is set to turn.

Earlier this year, the Indiana General Assembly passed legislation sponsored by State Senator Kyle Walker and State Representative Ethan Manning permitting electronic pull tabs (e-tabs) for charitable organizations – a direct response to the strong advocacy efforts of Hoosier veterans, led by the Big Four (American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the National Guard Association of Indiana). These devices provide the same traditional pull tab game experience in a digital format, all in an effort to increase engagement, modernize fundraising efforts and provide new, sustainable revenue streams.

The excitement is palpable because we have seen how e-tabs have been an unequivocal success for our neighbors in Ohio. All the evidence confirms increased revenue for veteran and community services, ensuring that more funds go directly to programs veterans support in their communities. Additionally, e-tab systems are designed with built-in accountability measures, reducing the risk of fraud, simplifying reporting and the proper allocation of funds to charitable purposes. These modernized systems are also easier to use and more accessible, attracting younger generations who are more familiar and comfortable with digital gaming formats.

While paper pull tabs have served VSOs well for decades, and certainly aren’t going anywhere, evolving technology and shifting demographics present a unique opportunity for an update. Modernizing charitable gaming is a breath of fresh air for clubs who have seen their membership dwindle. And, e-tabs will allow clubs to further invest in the many community charities and initiatives they support. I applaud Hoosier veterans and legislative leaders for advocating for this forward-thinking approach.

VSOs and fraternal clubs have long been the bedrock of our Hoosier communities, and now with e-tabs, we know that this legacy will endure. These groups are more than just meeting halls. They are hubs of service, support and connection. If this sounds like your idea of fun, community and fellowship, I encourage you to visit your local post today.

Colonel Joe Morris, USMC (Retired), is a Marine Corps veteran with 41 years of service. He serves as the Director of Veteran and Fraternal Relations at Arrow International, where he continues his steadfast commitment to veteran communities.

This piece was originally published by Inside Indiana Business.