As the Rhode Island Lottery celebrates its 50th anniversary, it is worth reflecting on how a single 50-cent game, launched in 1974, has grown into a state institution. What began with "The Lot," a once-weekly drawing, has evolved into a powerhouse of entertainment, offering everything from Keno to sports betting and iGaming.
“We began with one game and a dream,” says Rhode Island Lottery Director Mark Furcolo. “Now, we have a full lineup of draw games, instant games, and multi-state favorites like Powerball and Mega Millions. It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come!”
The Lottery’s impact is undeniable. Over $9 billion has been allocated to the state’s General Fund, supporting essential services. Additionally, over $57 billion in prizes has been awarded, reinvesting funds into local communities. Rhode Islanders have also witnessed some truly unforgettable wins, including a $336.4 million Powerball jackpot in 2012, the largest in the state's history and the largest U.S. jackpot ever at the time. “Media trucks were camped outside our office for that one,” recalls Rhode Island Lottery Marketing Manager Melissa Juhnowski. “It was wild!”
The Lottery’s contributions extend beyond prize payouts. Over the years, it has supported more than 1,200 local businesses and sponsored local sports teams. Even charitable causes have benefited from Pull Tab games, which nonprofit organizations use for fundraising. “We’re proud to be part of the community,” says Furcolo. “From our early days on TV with community groups to today’s digital presence, we’ve always been about giving back.”
Looking to the future, the Rhode Island Lottery plans to continue innovating. “We are excited to expand our online offerings and explore new partnerships,” Furcolo hints. For more information, visit RILot.com.
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