Benton Harbor Nonprofit Opens Bingo Hall to Fund Job Training

For the first time in 20 miles, Benton Harbor residents can play bingo without a long drive, and every game they play helps their neighbors land real jobs.

The Benton Harbor Success Movement opens its weekly "Big Bingo Great Games" fundraiser Friday, May 22, at 5 p.m. Executive Director Ron King spent 10 months getting state licensing to make it happen.

The nonprofit, formerly known as Benton Harbor Street Ministries, is expanding beyond youth services to help adults build careers. Bingo nights are the engine funding their ambitious vision.

King and his team are training up to 25 people at a time to become virtual call assistants for companies like eBay and Carnival Cruise Line. The organization is raising money for a passenger bus to transport trainees during their 90-day probationary period.

After three months, graduates earn the laptop they trained on and can work from home. Future plans include offering Commercial Driver's License training and culinary certificates.

The response from locals has been enthusiastic. About 10 people from the Benton Harbor Senior Center attended a recent kick-off luncheon and celebrated not having to drive 20 miles or more for bingo anymore.

The Ripple Effect

What started as a Friday fundraiser is becoming a community hub. King plans to add movie nights and game nights featuring Spades and Euchre, giving adults social activities while building the resources to change lives through job training.

The timing matters. Remote work opportunities have exploded, but many people lack access to training or equipment. By combining entertainment with economic empowerment, the Success Movement is creating a sustainable model where neighbors help neighbors build better futures.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Friday at 200 E. Empire Ave. in Benton Harbor, with bingo starting at 6:30 p.m.

Every card played is an investment in someone's career, and every winner celebrates knowing they're part of something bigger than the game.