In a collaborative effort to address the risks associated with youth gambling, a coalition of 66 lotteries and 84 community organizations worldwide has come together for the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign. Led by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours at McGill University, this initiative aims to underscore the dangers associated with gifting lottery tickets to children, particularly during the holiday season.
Campaign Objectives and Initiators:
The primary goal of the Gift Responsibly Campaign is to raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling and discourage the practice of gifting lottery tickets to minors.
The initiative is spearheaded by the NCPG and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours at McGill University.
Scope of Participation:
The campaign boasts the involvement of 66 lotteries and 84 community organizations globally.
Noteworthy is the sixth consecutive participation of 100% eligible US and Canadian lotteries, underlining the widespread support for the cause.
Endorsements and Support:
The campaign has garnered support from key industry players, including the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, the World Lottery Association, and the European Lotteries.
The backing of these influential organizations amplifies the campaign’s reach and impact.
Message Dissemination Channels:
Participating organizations will utilize a multi-faceted approach to disseminate the campaign’s message. This includes public service announcements, social media campaigns, digital advertising, in-store messaging, and retailer training.
The diverse communication channels ensure that the message reaches a broad audience, fostering widespread awareness.
Expert Insight:
Jeffrey Derevensky, Director of the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours, emphasizes the importance of the campaign in the face of the growing social acceptability of gambling on an international level.
He stresses the need for adults to be mindful of the potential risks and not gift lottery tickets to minors.
Global Significance:
The international collaboration signifies a united front against the global issue of youth gambling.
By involving organizations from various countries, the campaign acknowledges the universal nature of the problem and the need for a collective effort.
Acknowledgment of Risk:
Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director, acknowledges the risks associated with youth gambling and applauds the participating lotteries and community organizations for their commitment to amplifying the campaign’s crucial message.
This recognition adds weight to the urgency of addressing the issue.
Recent Developments:
The Gift Responsibly Campaign follows the announcement by the NCPG of its Fall 2023 Agility Grants, totaling $176,000. These grants aim to support five non-profit organizations dedicated to addressing problem gambling issues across the US.
The inclusion of recent developments highlights the ongoing efforts of the NCPG in combatting problem gambling beyond the campaign.
The 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign stands as a testament to the global commitment to combatting the risks associated with youth gambling. With widespread participation, endorsements from key industry players, and a multi-channel communication strategy, the campaign aims to create a lasting impact on public awareness. The collaborative efforts reflect a shared responsibility to protect the well-being of minors and foster a safer environment during the holiday season and beyond.