One story is all I have.

And it all started in an instant of instinct.  After 27 years in the classroom, I was getting pretty close to my retirement when a colleague stopped me in the hallway at Tsinglan School in Dongguan.  “Mr. Payne – you’re leaving us soon.  What would you like for a retirement gift?”  

Without hesitation, I said, “I really don’t need more gifts, but it would be great if you could send me a donation that I could pass along to Snowland Arts!”  And just like that, my retirement got linked to charitable giving.  

Some of the best ideas start as parties.

In May of 2025, I threw myself a retirement party that was like no other.  Thirty-five guests, a karaoke machine, a spinning wheel, and a simple idea: what if the songs people sang could raise money for something that mattered?

Three hours later, we’d raised $2,500 for Snowland Arts in Lijiang — a 5-year art study program for underprivileged artists from nomadic communities in western China. The venue host Tina donated her brownie proceeds. Guests paid to manipulate the queue. People who can’t sing sang anyway. Everyone had a blast.

That night became Chariteoke.

The Concept

Chariteoke is free karaoke fundraising — for nonprofits, by nonprofits, powered by generosity and a little off-key enthusiasm. We provide verified US nonprofits with a complete event kit, free of charge. No tiers. No upsells. Every approved organization gets everything they need to run their own Chariteoke event.

You keep every dollar you raise. All we ask for in return is a photo, a video, or a story.

Why Karaoke?

Because it works. Karaoke lowers inhibitions, builds community, and creates moments people remember. Add a donation mechanic — our signature Skew the Queue system — and you’ve turned a party into a fundraiser without it ever feeling like one.

Do Good Even If You’re Bad™