DraftKings Thursday announced a multi-year financial commitment to help states with responsible gaming initiatives.
The State Council Funding Program offers 35 state problem gambling councils $15,000 per year for three years to support non-profit organizations. The cost of DraftKings’ commitment is $1.57 million over a three-year trial period starting in January 2022.
“I have seen first-hand how these organizations are a tremendous resource for individuals and families and serve as a critical stakeholder and partner for gaming operators,” said DraftKings Director, Responsible Gaming, Christine Thurmond in a statement. “DraftKings is committed to advancing responsible gaming in collaboration with state councils across the U.S. Our hope is that this funding will give councils that extra support needed to fund priority areas, expand services, or hire additional staff; whatever is most needed, we want to help financially.”
Monies from the State Council Funding Program may be used at the discretion of each council to bolster services and programs for individuals and families. Funds also can be used for staffing purposes, including training, conferences, helplines, and general capacity building.
“State councils provide a first line of defense for addressing the needs of people impacted by problem gambling,” said Keith Whyte, Executive Director, National Council on Problem Gambling Executive Director Keith Whyte in a statement. “While it’s well established that these organizations provide critical assistance in the community, they don’t always have the resources and funds to take treatment and prevention to the next level. This significant initiative by DraftKings shows their commitment to and knowledge of the importance of the work state councils provide.”
The NCPG members include the 35 state affiliate councils.
DraftKings’ responsible gaming measures also include an agreement with the Cambridge Health Alliance, Division on Addiction, and Harvard Medical School to pioneer a systems-based approach to employee training in responsible gaming and a commitment to the American Gaming Association’s public service campaign Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly; and responsible gaming education and marketing through customer touchpoints including email, social media, and DraftKings retail sportsbooks.
