The NFL Extends $6.4 Million Partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling
Published: October 28, 2024
The NFL and the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) have recently announced they’re extending a $6.4 million partnership from 2021. The new grant will enable the continued expansion of NCPG’s goals, including enhanced data collection efforts, transparent helpline communication, and improved gambling prevention initiatives.
“We are profoundly grateful for the NFL’s renewed investment in NCPG, which will enable us to grow the essential prevention, education, and awareness initiatives that were established through their initial grant,” Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director, recently stated.
“This partnership has been instrumental in advancing our mission of minimizing gambling-related harm. We look forward to building on the significant progress we’ve made together over the past three years and exploring new avenues for impact.”
This expanded partnership comes on the heels of an increase in gambling disorders across the nation as sports betting legalization continues to grow nationally. The speed and intensity of sports can lead to making bets too fast without thinking about the risks, which can develop into a gambling disorder. But there are ways sports fans can keep their play responsible.
- Realize when to walk away: It starts with knowing the risks before you bet, realizing when to quit and not chase your losses, and getting help if you or someone you know needs it.
- Track your time: This can include setting boundaries on the time and money spent gambling, having hobbies outside of gambling, knowing that everyone loses over time, and keeping the activity fun and recreational for everyone involved.
- Mind your money: You can do this by playing for entertainment rather than income, gambling only with money set aside for entertainment, not borrowing money to play, and betting only what you can afford to lose.
- Enjoy the game: Sports are supposed to be fun! Keep it that way by never gambling when stressed, depressed, or in recovery, not mixing gambling with alcohol and other substances, and understanding that knowing more about a game won’t ensure a win.
Interested in more responsible gambling resources? Individuals can take the quiz from Pause Before You Play to gauge their risk level for a gambling disorder, download community toolkits to educate themselves and their community, and access tips and resources on how to gamble responsibly.
And if you or someone you care about needs help, don’t hesitate to call the free and confidential Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline, where trained and understanding specialists are available 24/7 to take your call, with no strings or commitments attached. Call 1-800-589-9966 or text 4HOPE to 741741 today.