ABOUT CHICAGO LOOT DROP
Chicago Loot Drop is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that seeks to develop an inclusive gamer community, share our love of games, and spread joy within the city of Chicago. Since 2010, we’ve hosted events, raised funds, and donated toys and games to a variety of causes to bring gamers of all ages together to do good in our communities.
Through our longtime partnership with Comer Children’s Hospital, we’ve donated thousands of toys and games to kids over the years. We are actively looking to grow our partnerships throughout Chicago communities.
Through volunteering and social events, we aspire to create an inclusive, welcoming environment for gamers of all kinds to connect and game together online and irl. Whether you’re into tabletop or console games, an eSports champ or hanging around PokéStops, if you love to play games, you’re one of us.
Chicago Loot Drop annual kickball tournament with Chicagoland game dev studios
Our Mission
We exist to develop an inclusive gamer community in Chicago and to spread joy by sharing our love of games. We do this by hosting events that raise funds to benefit Chicago communities.
Comer Children’s Hospital
The University of Chicago’s Comer Children’s Hospital has quickly established itself as one of the country’s foremost hospitals specializing in children’s care since it opened in 2005. Comer is a major referral center for treatment of complex disease, caring for thousands of children from Chicago, the Midwest, and beyond each year.
Comer Children’s Hospital has exactly $0 allocated from their budget toward toys and games for the children and their families, many of whom have long-term stays. The hospital relies on donations like ours to provide their patients with toys and games to keep them entertained and in high spirits while being treated. They also have an Amazon Wish List if you would like to contribute directly.
ORGANIZATIONAL
GOALS
Build
Chicago Loot Drop does not exist solely as a fundraising organization. We operate as an entirely volunteer-driven community of gamers, and Loot Drop is one of the ways we work to build Chicago’s broader gaming community.
Uplift + Support
Through our events, we benefit the communities around us that could use our support. We are committed to uplifting minority voices in gaming, supporting BIPOC and LGBTQ+ gamers and gaming organizations, and leveraging both irl and virtual events to get gamers to explore the neighborhoods of Chicago and meet other like minded gamers.
Partner
While Comer Children’s Hospital is our primary beneficiary, we are always looking to expand our partnerships for both events and fundraising. If you know of an organization that could play well with Loot Drop, please contact us.
Team
Patrick Hitzler (he/him)
Chair
Preferred Platforms:
PlayStation, PC, Nintendo Switch
Always Wants Recs for:
The games closest to your heart! I love hearing stories about the games, characters and memories with friends that helped shape you into the person you are today. It’s the core of what makes gaming so special.
Melissa Borda (she/her)
Secretary
Preferred Platform:
Table Top, PC
Always Wants Recs for:
Co-op everything! Board games, split-screen shooters, if it brings people together around a couch or a table, I’m in. Extra points for earnest stories, experimental mechanics, or aesthetics that feel like you’re walking around a comic book.
Abigail Jackson (she/they)
Community Manager
Preferred Platforms:
PS5, Nintendo Switch
Always Wants Recs for:
Your deepest lore takes on a series! I love games with a well thought-out narrative, especially those that use game mechanics to reinforce the story, even if it is simple. Bonus points if the game is generally challenging, like a From Software game or metroidvania.
Join an Inclusive Gaming Community
There are many ways to join the Loot Drop community that suit your lifestyle, interests, and availability. Chat with new friends online, show up to an event, help organize an event, or maybe even join the board!
The best first steps are to sign up for our newsletter and check out options on our Get Involved page.