Eureka Casino Resort Advances Community Education
Eureka Casino Resort in Mesquite, Nevada, advances community education by sponsoring an elementary school reading program. Explore more about Eureka Casino’s community initiatives here. This sponsorship highlights Eureka’s commitment to fostering literacy and education among young students. The Mesquite Reads program, now in its 11th year, is designed to support 100 children from kindergarten to fourth grade at J.L. Bowler Elementary School in Bunkerville.
According to Eureka Casino Resort CEO Andre Carrier, “At Eureka, our commitment goes beyond hospitality, it extends directly into the classroom. Mesquite Reads embodies the very heart of the Eureka Way — creative collaboration, compassionate service, and a relentless belief in the potential of our community’s children.”
The Impact of Mesquite Reads
Since 2014, Mesquite Reads has impacted over 1,500 students, ensuring they read at grade level by third grade. The Eureka Community Initiative (ECI) has contributed $291,488 to fund the mission and provide over 4,000 free books during community events. This year’s four-week session, from May 27 to June 18, offers small-group instruction with classes of 10 to 15 students.
Each day begins with breakfast and outdoor activities, leading to intensive literacy sessions. Young students focus on sight words, fluency, and reading comprehension, while older children engage in storytelling and writing. The curriculum also incorporates individualized math instruction and unique activities like loom-knitting hats for NICU babies.
One highlight of the program is Super Summer School Spaghetti Thursdays, where Eureka employee-owners and community partners serve spaghetti lunches. Gerri Chasko, Director of the Eureka Community Initiative, notes that more than 800 lunches have been shared, emphasizing the program’s communal spirit.
Long-Term Community Investment
The Eureka Community Initiative’s roots trace back to 2012, reflecting Eureka Casino Resort’s dedication to its hometown since opening in 1997. As a 100% employee-owned organization since 2015, Eureka has supported over 50 community programs in education, outreach, economic development, and citizenship.
Carrier states, “Our employee-owners are personally invested in this town. Their kids go to these schools. That’s why programs like Mesquite Reads matter so much to us. It’s not just philanthropy — it’s personal for every one of us.” With consistent support and engagement, Eureka Casino Resort continues to play a vital role in community development, ensuring a brighter future for its youngest residents. For updates on gambling legislation and related topics, visit CDC Gaming Reports.
