COLUMBUS, OHIO — The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) announced the recipients of the 2022 NCPG National Awards this past week at the National Conference on Problem Gambling & Responsible Gaming.
Among those recognized was Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO), which received the Jim Wuelfing Annual Award for Prevention. Awarded to those with outstanding annual achievements in the prevention of problem gambling through advocacy, development, and training, the award was presented to PGNO for its advocacy during the process of legalizing sports betting in the state.
PGNO helped successfully include a number of consumer protections into legislation such as dedicated funding to problem sports gambling and requirements for marketing to include the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline.
“Ohio is often looked at as an example for how other states should build their problem gambling support system due to our collaborative and innovative partnerships and programs. It’s great to see the hard work that makes the ‘Ohio Model’ a success recognized on a national level,” says Derek Longmeier, executive director of PGNO.
Other award winners include the Ohio Lottery Commission received the Corporate Communications Award for the “Keep It Fun” campaign, which encourages Ohioans to gamble responsibly and in moderation. Information on the campaign is available at KeepItFunOhio.com.
Before You Bet, Ohio’s statewide responsible gambling campaign, received the People’s Choice Award for its public awareness print campaign. The campaign encourages those who choose to gamble to get set before they bet to prevent a gambling problem. Ohioans are encouraged to make a game plan and take the quiz to help gauge their gambling at BeforeYouBet.org.
The Media Award was presented to Stephanie Hanley of WKYC-TV Cleveland, for the Problem Gambling Awareness Month episodes of “3 Things to Know.” These episodes raised awareness of problem gambling and local resources through interviews with advocates and local leaders.
“I want to congratulate all who took received awards in recognition of their achievements,” says Longmeier. “We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated groups and individuals.”
