FanDuel Champions Responsible Gaming with New Initiatives and Partnerships
FanDuel, the leading name in North America’s online gaming landscape, has announced a strategic array of initiatives coupled with substantial financial backing, aimed at accentuating the critical importance of responsible gaming during Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
In a significant move, FanDuel is teaming up with Kindbridge Behavioral Health, a trailblazing mental health services provider focusing on addressing the complexities associated with problem gambling. This collaboration kicks off with a pilot program targeting New Jersey and Ohio, designed to offer self-excluded players immediate access to comprehensive mental health assessments and supportive group services.
Responsible gambling
This initiative is poised to deliver immediate scheduling options for individuals seeking outpatient treatment for problem gambling, utilizing telehealth platforms. Participants who opt for self-exclusion from FanDuel’s services in New Jersey and Ohio are now entitled to a free mental health assessment, complemented by a suite of peer support and educational group activities, all aimed at fostering a supportive recovery environment.
Alison Kutler, FanDuel’s Vice President of Sustainability and Responsible Gaming, expressed her enthusiasm: “Our commitment at FanDuel to foster responsible play is a year-round endeavor. Problem Gambling Awareness Month presents a unique opportunity to expand our partnerships and enhance the accessibility of support resources for problem gambling.”
Echoing this sentiment, Daniel Umfleet, CEO of Kindbridge Behavioral Health, stated: “We are thrilled to be working with FanDuel to offer vital mental health support for players in need. This collaboration is deeply resonant, extending a compassionate hand to those navigating the complex terrain of problem gambling. At the heart of our ethos lies a fervent belief in the power of accessible mental health resources to illuminate paths toward healing and recovery.”
Strengthening Non-Profit Partnerships
FanDuel’s dedication to problem gambling prevention extends to its support of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) through a generous donation of $150,000. This contribution will bolster the NCPG’s Agility Grants program, sponsored by the NFL Foundation, aimed at enhancing problem gambling prevention efforts across the United States.
Additionally, FanDuel is committing another $150,000 to the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG). This funding is earmarked for critical research endeavors designed to deepen the understanding of gambling behaviors in the U.S., with the ultimate goal of refining the industry’s responsible gaming practices.
Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director, praised FanDuel’s proactive stance: “Investing in prevention is key to mitigating gambling-related harm. We appreciate FanDuel’s support of NCPG and their proactive and collaborative approach to providing problem gambling prevention, research and treatment resources.”
Arthur Paikowsky, President of ICRG, highlighted the significance of FanDuel’s contribution: “FanDuel’s support continues to play a huge role in ICRG’s research and development. We are honored to work with FanDuel as we commit to advocating for the importance of responsible gaming.”
Our Comment on the Article
FanDuel’s latest initiatives underscore a comprehensive and proactive approach towards promoting responsible gaming. By collaborating with Kindbridge and bolstering non-profit partnerships, FanDuel is setting a commendable industry standard in addressing problem gambling. These efforts not only reflect a deep commitment to player welfare but also highlight the potential for collaborative strategies to effect meaningful change within the gaming community. As the industry evolves, FanDuel’s leadership in responsible gaming initiatives serves as an inspiring model for others to follow.
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