Scientific Games Recognized for Exceptional Corporate Responsibility
Scientific Games, a global leader in lottery and digital gaming, has been awarded the 2026 Communitas Award for their remarkable commitment to corporate social responsibility. The award highlights the organization's innovative initiatives aimed at improving both environmental sustainability and social impact.
The Award-Winning Initiative
The accolade was earned for a unique project in Germany centered on the recycling of wooden shipping pallets. This initiative was developed in partnership with the v. Bodelschwingh Foundations Bethel, a prominent social service organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities. The aim was twofold: to provide a second life for discarded pallets while simultaneously creating meaningful employment opportunities for the disabled community.
Andrew Jackson, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at Scientific Games, expressed his pride in receiving the Communitas Award, stating, "We are honored to be recognized with a Communitas Award for this project, which is a great example of our global efforts to invest in locally led initiatives that create measurable environmental and social impact."
Transforming Waste into Opportunities
The partnership began with Scientific Games donating an extensive number of wooden pallets originally used for transporting lottery scratchcards. Rather than allowing this untreated wood to contribute to landfill waste, the pallets have been ingeniously repurposed. Members of the disabled community at Bethel's Kracks Workshop have transformed these materials into beautiful handcrafted items, including birdhouses and toys. These products are then sold through Bethel’s retail shop, generating vital funds to support the organization's valuable programs and operations.
Dunja Vukotic-Finkler, the Director of Instant Ticket Service Operations at Scientific Games, commented on the innovative nature of the initiative, saying, "Through our partnership with Bethel, these pallets are becoming products that support skills development and employment for people with disabilities. We are proud to see an initiative rooted in our everyday operations recognized for environmental and social benefits."
Long-term Impact and Community Benefits
This ongoing initiative has not only reduced landfill waste but has also significantly extended the useful life of natural materials. The regular donations of wooden pallets support Bethel's expansion in woodworking capabilities and readiness for more complex projects.
Jürgen Hoff, who oversees Bethel's Kracks Workshop, highlighted the value of receiving high-quality wood during economically challenging times. He noted, "Donations of quality wood are especially valuable when charitable contributions are declining. The donated materials allow participants to create products that fund additional programs and help individuals build skills through meaningful work."
Continuing Commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility
This Communitas Award is the latest recognition for Scientific Games' corporate responsibility initiatives, following two awards received in 2025 for their SG Tech Project, which donates refurbished technology to local schools, and for their active participation in a STEAM career mentoring program for young women.
Scientific Games contributes significantly to government-regulated lotteries around the world, generating substantial funds to support various uplifting community programs, including those focused on health, education, and environmental sustainability. The Communitas Awards serve to inspire organizations to pursue a better world through volunteerism, ethical practices, and sustainable business methods.
As a leader within the industry, Scientific Games provides innovative gaming solutions and services to 150 lotteries across 50 countries, including 16 varying entities within Germany. The company's dedication to ethical business practices not only strengthens their industry standing but also enhances their commitment to making a positive social impact globally.
A Future Focused on Sustainability
As Scientific Games continues to expand its footprint in both retail and digital domains, it remains committed to integrating sustainable practices within its operations. The company’s legacy of providing engaging gaming experiences emphasizes responsible enjoyment while ensuring a beneficial impact on society overall. For more information about their projects and innovations, visit
Scientific Games.