November 27, 2024

(RADFORD, VA) – New River Valley Community Services (NRVCS) today announced its commitment as a participant in the 2024 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and supported by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).

Research shows that the earlier a person’s participation or exposure to gambling is in childhood, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, such as lottery tickets or scratch offs. Often these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks.

“Today’s young people are being exposed to a constant stream of advertising and promotion for gambling – through social media, televised sporting events, streaming services and gaming – it’s literally everywhere these days,” notes Mike Wade, Coordinator of Community Wellness and Outreach at NRVCS. “So, it’s important for parents and caregivers to have age-appropriate conversations with their children about the associated risks and potential consequences of gambling.”

During November and December, Wade says NRVCS will work to promote awareness about the risks of underage lottery use through social media posts and sharing information with various community stakeholders – including school officials and representatives from other youth serving organizations.

“The potential long-term risks associated with underage gambling exposure cannot be understated,” said Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director. “We applaud NRVCS for their commitment to raising awareness about the risks of youth gambling and for working to educate the community that lottery tickets are never appropriate gifts for children.” 

NRVCS has additional information and resources related to problem gambling prevention available on their website at nrvcs.org/safebet.