LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is participating in Boyd Gaming’s 11th annual “Trees of Hope” competition, a festive event that combines holiday cheer with charitable giving.
This year, nearly $70,000 in prize money will be distributed to 38 local nonprofit organizations, including the Red Cross, to support their vital missions.
The Red Cross of Southern Nevada has decorated a holiday tree that reflects its mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering. The tree is on display at Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall, alongside four other nonprofit entries.
“This is more than just a friendly competition; it’s an opportunity for the community to come together and support organizations that make a real difference,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Southern Nevada Chapter. “Every vote cast is a vote for hope, healing, and the power of community during this holiday season.”
The public is encouraged to participate by voting for their favorite holiday decorations. Voting is open now through Friday, Dec. 12, and can be done in person at participating Boyd Gaming properties, online via Boyd Gaming’s social media platforms, or at https://www.boydgaming.com/pages/trees-of-hope.
Each of the eight Boyd Gaming properties in Las Vegas will award cash prizes to all participating charities, with every participating nonprofit guaranteed a minimum of $1,000.
“Trees of Hope is a memorable and festive way for Boyd Gaming and our properties to celebrate the holiday season with our customers and our communities, while giving back to the many non-profit organizations that serve our communities year-round,” said David Strow, Boyd’s Vice President of Corporate Communications.
The Red Cross of Southern Nevada has had a significant impact on the community this year, responding to over 240 home fires and assisting more than 1,100 people in their recovery.
Volunteers from the region have also deployed nationwide to provide aid during hurricanes, wildfires, and floods. In addition to disaster response, the Red Cross supports local veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families, offers free preparedness training, and hosts over 650 blood drives annually to ensure a stable blood supply.
The Trees of Hope competition began in 2007 at Boyd Gaming’s Delta Downs Racetrack and Hotel in Louisiana and has since grown into a nationwide initiative, with more than $1.2 million donated to nonprofit organizations across the country to date. In 2024 alone, over 165 nonprofits participated, with nearly $200,000 distributed to support their missions.