The game of Powerball goes beyond just benefiting those who play Powerball and provides funding to all kinds of community programs, including education.
There is more to playing Powerball than winning the big jackpot! You might be wondering how there could be anything bigger than hitting a big Powerball prize at the individual level. However, schools, universities, and other community-driven programs are big winners when there’s a winning Powerball ticket, too. Today, we’ll highlight some of the other community benefits of Powerball.
Revenue Generation
Powerball ticket purchases can be an excellent source of revenue for states, especially when the jackpot prize grows to a large amount. When the jackpot starts approaching record levels, Powerball players are more encouraged to purchase tickets. This influx of ticket sales, in turn, generates a solid stream of revenue to the community’s tax base. Schools and other state and locally-funded programs can also benefit from this Powerball revenue.
Education Funding
Perhaps the best-known benefit of Powerball ticket purchases is the surge in funding toward education and school resources. Public schools and universities often have tight budgets. Powerball proceeds offer schools a funding solution to enhance classroom environments with adaptive learning centers such as tutoring or reading labs. Big ticket items such as state-of-the-art electronics can also be afforded. Computers, tablets, and smart boards, normally found on teacher wish lists, could be made a reality all because of Powerball funding. Additionally, extra staff and faculty could be added to school rosters to ease classroom overcrowding and offer tutoring help to students who might be struggling academically.
Other Powerball Beneficiaries
Powerball proceeds may also go towards various socio-economic groups within the state. Since many states earmark this money as discretionary funding, it can be specifically designated and distributed to particular beneficiaries. These beneficiaries can include substance abuse centers, group homes, and even homeless shelters. This funding gives back to the communities by offering incentives for individuals who may be affected by addiction, homelessness, or other social issues to find advocacy, employment, and mental health assistance.
Supporting State Budgets
Powerball revenue relieves states of budgetary constraints, too. Ticket sales often support state-funded entities, including healthcare initiatives and low or no-cost medical care. These funds might go to infrastructure projects like bridges or road repairs. Other state-funded programs like childcare or assisted living centers could also benefit from Powerball funding. And when the state can remain balanced in its budget, citizens statewide can all benefit from these expenditures.
Economic Stimulus
Economic development may be enhanced with Powerball monies. Some positive results that can be seen from Powerball funding include increased revenue from retailers and the creation of job opportunities. With the increased popularity of Powerball, there is the possibility of more retailers opening up businesses in the community that offer Powerball play options. More businesses in a community means employment opportunities are bolstered. There may even be a noticeable uptick in the real estate market with home purchases as well as rentals, all due to Powerball ticket purchases bringing in revenue to the community.
How Powerball Funding Works
The Powerball Commission works very closely with state and local governments to fine-tune where funding is best suited and most needed. While schools do see the majority of allotted funds, other groups and programs are most certainly given consideration and funded appropriately. Based on sales of Powerball tickets, a percentage of those sales is earmarked for certain programs and distributed accordingly. Sometimes the Powerball funding can keep certain programs out of the red and doors to much needed services can remain open.
Everyone Seems to Win with Powerball
There are always winners when it comes to Powerball, and they aren’t just jackpot winners! Each time you purchase a Powerball ticket from a local retailer, you’re a key player in not just the Powerball but also in keeping school programs alive and other community projects moving forward. Support your schools, universities, and state and local programs by purchasing a Powerball ticket and getting in on the community spirit!