Responsible Gambling Council begins youth awareness initiative
By Adnews Staff
The Toronto-based Responsible Gambling Council began a new campaign in Ontario yesterday aimed at raising awareness of the risks of problem gambling among young people aged 18 to 24. The campaign will encourage young people to help friends who may be problem gamblers to find the resources that can assist them. "In a short period, the popularity of online casino games, poker tournaments and sports betting among young adults has soared. It is critical to provide this group with the support to make informed and responsible decisions," said Jon Kelly, CEO of the council, "We know we need to deliver the message in a way that makes them stop and think. The one group that is a key influence on young people is their friends." The initiative, which will run through March 2006, is based on a new website that has been constructed at <http://www.friends4friends.ca>. This site contains information for young people on recognizing and helping problem gamblers. The campaign also includes posters in bars and on university campuses, plus advertising in theatres, youth-oriented publications and transit systems. The campaign was created in-house by the council with support from the Ontario Ministry of Health.