Disaster Relief Fundraiser Spearheaded by Speedrunning Community

The speedrunning community, known for its dedication to completing video games as quickly as possible, is stepping up to lend a helping hand in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Games Done Quick, a renowned organization that hosts charity gaming marathons, is organizing a special event called Disaster Relief Done Quick to raise funds for relief efforts across the affected regions.

Harnessing the Power of Speedrunning for Good

Shifting Focus to Disaster Relief

Typically, Games Done Quick (GDQ) directs its fundraising efforts towards organizations like Doctors Without Borders and the Prevent Cancer Foundation. However, in the wake of the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, the group has decided to channel all the proceeds from this special marathon towards Direct Relief, a charity that is spearheading medical and humanitarian aid across the affected states.

Mobilizing the Speedrunning Community

The Disaster Relief Done Quick event is scheduled to take place from October 11 to October 13, 2024, providing a platform for speedrunners to showcase their skills and contribute to the relief efforts. The sign-up process is open until the end of October 6, 2024, allowing the community to rally behind this important cause.

Addressing Immediate Needs

Direct Relief, the recipient of the funds raised, has already established mobile medical stations throughout Georgia, the Carolinas, and other impacted regions. Their focus is on providing essential medical treatment, transportation support, and emergency supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene. This includes ensuring the availability of sensitive medications, such as insulin, that may have been compromised due to power outages. Additionally, the organization is working tirelessly to reach isolated individuals who have been cut off from essential care and wound treatment due to the destruction of roads and infrastructure.

Building on Past Successes

Games Done Quick is no stranger to organizing successful charity events. In the summer of 2024, their Summer Games Done Quick marathon raised over $2.5 million for Doctors Without Borders. The Disaster Relief Done Quick event aims to harness the same level of enthusiasm and support from the speedrunning community to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by Hurricane Helene.

Diverse Game Lineup

While the full schedule for Disaster Relief Done Quick is still being finalized, the event has already received early submissions featuring a wide range of games, including classic titles like Super Mario Bros., as well as more recent releases such as Tales of Arise and Pokemon Puzzle League. This diverse lineup promises to captivate viewers and showcase the incredible skills of the speedrunning community.

Uniting for a Common Cause

The Disaster Relief Done Quick event represents a powerful demonstration of the speedrunning community's commitment to using their passion and expertise to make a positive difference in the world. By channeling their collective energy towards this important cause, the organizers and participants are poised to make a tangible impact on the lives of those affected by Hurricane Helene, showcasing the transformative potential of gaming and the human spirit.