Donna Raucher: Building Success Through Heart and Determination

In Las Vegas, where the bright lights and endless energy of the Strip set the pace, Donna Raucher stands out as a leader who turns challenges into opportunities. As the CEO of Global Promotional Sourcing (GPS), she is running a business while building a legacy. With her three dogs often by her side at the office, she creates a workplace that’s as warm as it is productive, reflecting her belief that “to say you have no choice is a failure of imagination.” That mindset has guided her through every challenge, and it continues to shape the business she’s grown, the team she leads, and the community she serves.  

Building GPS Through Crisis and Growth

GPS was founded in 2001 by Donna's husband, Steve, and his partner, Brad. From the start, Donna was involved, handling the behind-the-scenes work that kept the business running smoothly. Though she didn't officially join full-time until 2016, her influence was always there, ensuring the team was taken care of and operations ran like clockwork. The company's mission was clear from day one: create rewarding experiences for casino players across America by providing the incentive gifts that casinos give to their high-level players.

This mission would be tested repeatedly over the next two decades. Just six months after opening in March 2001, the September 11 attacks shook the entire economy. "That was the first hurdle, the first of many," Donna recalls. The company weathered that storm, only to face the 2009 housing crisis that cut their sales in half. Then came tariff challenges in 2019, followed by the 2020 pandemic, and now another round of tariff issues. Each crisis forced GPS to reinvent how they served their casino clients. During the pandemic, they pivoted from sourcing air fryers and luggage to supplying masks and sanitizers to help casinos reopen safely. When recent tariffs threatened their supply chain, they shifted to domestic and alternative sources, ensuring continued service without interruption.

The most significant change came in 2013 when Steve's business partner left the company. Rather than sell GPS as originally planned, Donna officially stepped up as CEO in 2016. "I'm much better doing the behind the scenes, taking care of the people, taking care of the details," she explains. This decision kept the business in the family while allowing Steve to focus on sales, and it proved transformative. Under her leadership, GPS has doubled its team since 2020 and expanded its reach nationwide, working with casinos from Mississippi to Minnesota, Connecticut to California.

Today, GPS creates themed gift programs that match budgets ranging from $15 for mid-tier players to $500 for VIPs. When you receive a toaster, luggage set, or air fryer as a casino reward, there's a good chance GPS sourced and designed that program. From housewares and bedding to small appliances, GPS sources products that appeal to diverse clientele. Whether it's health-focused January themes with scales and yoga mats or festive Thanksgiving serving platters, GPS handles everything from concept to delivery, turning what started as a small family business into one of the top players in their industry.  

A Family-Like Team

Donna’s pride and joy is her team, some of whom, like Pat and Lori, have been with GPS for over 20 years. She hires people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty, and she leads by example, whether it’s restocking the office bathroom or helping in the warehouse. This hands-on approach fosters a family-like atmosphere where everyone pitches in. A standout moment came when a major order for a new customer went wrong. With a new vendor and salesperson, everything seemed doomed. But Donna rallied the team, and they flew to Washington, working through the night to unbox and repack the order, ensuring it was ready by morning. This effort showed the strength of their bond and their commitment to getting the job done.

The office’s pet-friendly policy adds to the unique culture. Donna’s dog, Delilah, is a regular, and other employees bring their pets too. Dogs like Miley, a Bichon mix, bring a calming influence, reducing stress and boosting creativity. Employees often take breaks to pet the dogs, which Donna sees as a form of pet therapy that makes the workplace more enjoyable.

Leading with Heart and Purpose

Beyond business, Donna is deeply committed to her community. Since 2018, she’s volunteered weekly at Living Grace Homes, supporting young mothers in transitional housing. She holds babies, helps with laundry, and guides them through job applications. She is always ready to lend a hand or an ear. She also recently became more involved with Kiss My Paws, a dog rescue organization, and supports other local charities. Her dedication earned her the Bess Cohn Humanitarian of the Year Award from the Advertising Specialty Institute in 2023, recognizing her impact in Las Vegas.

Donna Raucher is a leader who cares deeply about her team, her community, and her business. Her ability to navigate challenges with creativity and empathy has made GPS a success in a competitive industry. Whether she’s mentoring a young mother, cuddling a rescue puppy, or rallying her team to save a critical order, Donna brings heart to everything she does. As she continues to lead with imagination, there’s no doubt that GPS will keep growing and succeeding, just like its inspiring leader.