Walk into Giving Hope Bingo on any given night, and there’s a good chance Alissa Headrick Ford will be the one making sure everything runs just right. As our Operations Manager, she’s the steady hand behind each session. Alissa joined the Giving Hope Bingo team in July 2018. In the years since, she’s become an important part of both the daily operations and the community that fills our hall night after night.
A Job Rooted in Purpose
Ask Alissa what she loves most about her job, and she won’t hesitate. It’s knowing that every session helps fund nonprofit organizations serving kids across the Sioux Falls area.
“I love being able to help different nonprofit organizations that help kids within the Sioux Falls area,” she says. “Our players are like family around here, and we truly care about each other.”
That sense of family shows up the moment someone walks through the door. Whether Alissa is explaining a bingo package or catching up with a regular, she wants every player to feel welcomed and at ease.
Memories That Stick
After eight years, Alissa has plenty of favorite moments, but the ones tied to Make A Wish South Dakota rise to the top. Giving Hope Bingo has partnered with the organization for years, raising enough to grant six wishes for local kids.
“There are so many memories that it’s hard to pin down just one,” she says. “The special events we’ve done for Make A Wish really stick out. It’s such a rewarding feeling when we get to deliver a check that will help grant a child’s wish.”
Moments like these are a reminder that a night of bingo can ripple far beyond the games.
Get to Know Alissa
When she’s not running the floor, Alissa has her go to favorites. Her favorite game is Kite In Any Corner, and her lucky number is O71. She usually plays with a teal or red dauber.
When it’s time for a snack bar break, it’s usually the Aloha pizza or the BLT pizza.
Her Advice for New Players
If Alissa could tell every first time player one thing, it’s this: come early.
She recommends arriving at least 30 minutes before your session starts. That gives her staff time to help you choose the right package and walk you through how the games work.
“We want you to enjoy your time and not feel stressed,” she says. “Coming early gives our staff time to help you and explain the process for the night.”
Next time you’re at Giving Hope Bingo, look for Alissa and say hello. Her heart for this community is part of what makes every session feel like it matters.
