MGM and BetMGM Enhance Support for Problem Gambling with Kindbridge Partnership

This collaboration, announced on March 1, 2024, underscores the entertainment giants’ commitment to responsible gaming and coincides with their support for Problem Gambling Awareness Month.

Expanding the Frontiers of Gambling Disorder Research

MGM Resorts is breaking new ground with a $100,000 donation to the Kindbridge Research Institute, earmarked for a pioneering medication trial targeting veterans grappling with gambling addiction in Las Vegas. This innovative approach aims to alleviate gambling urges and reduce symptom severity, marking a significant step forward in treatment methodologies for gambling disorders among veterans.

Stephen Martino, Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer at MGM Resorts, highlighted the company’s dedication to the military community and its enthusiasm for backing research that could lead to groundbreaking treatments. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the University of Nevada-Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Veterans Affairs Residential Recovery and Renewal Center, is part of the ambitious 50x4vets program, aiming to exponentially increase gambling disorder research within the veteran community.

Nathan D. Smith, Executive Director of Kindbridge Research Institute, expressed gratitude for MGM Resorts’ support, emphasizing the potential of this intervention to enhance the well-being of veterans and contribute to the broader objectives of the 50x4vets program.

Strengthening Behavioral Health Support Across States

In parallel, BetMGM is set to widen its partnership with Kindbridge Behavioral Health, extending problem gambling referrals to additional states including Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ontario. This expansion builds on the success of the Kindbridge Colorado Pilot Program, demonstrating BetMGM’s commitment to providing accessible treatment and care for individuals facing gambling challenges.

Rhea Loney, BetMGM’s Chief Compliance Officer, praised the program’s impact thus far and emphasized the company’s resolve to support those in need of care as the availability of sports betting and online gaming grows. This collaboration offers direct access to comprehensive mental health assessments and treatment services, providing a lifeline for individuals seeking help.

Daniel Umfleet, CEO of Kindbridge Behavioral Health, welcomed BetMGM’s initiative to extend mental health services, recognizing it as a vital step towards creating safer gaming environments and making support readily available to those in distress.

Elevating Responsible Gaming Initiatives

As MGM Resorts and BetMGM join forces with the National Council on Problem Gambling to observe Problem Gambling Awareness Month, they are also enhancing their responsible gaming efforts through the GameSense program. This initiative involves proactive engagement with customers about responsible gambling practices and is prominently featured across MGM Resorts properties and the BetMGM app.

In addition to these efforts, MGM Resorts and BetMGM are dedicated to providing their employees with extensive responsible gaming training. This initiative has reached over 64,000 employees, with more than 400 achieving the highest level of training as GameSense Advisors, positioned across MGM Rewards desks nationwide to offer support and assistance.

Our Comment on the Article

The collaborative efforts of MGM Resorts, BetMGM, and Kindbridge signify a pivotal moment in the gambling industry’s approach to problem gambling and mental health. By investing in research, expanding access to treatment, and enhancing employee training, these organizations are setting a new standard for corporate responsibility in the gaming sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the proactive and compassionate approach demonstrated by these initiatives offers a model for how companies can contribute to the well-being of their communities and customers, ensuring a safer and more responsible gaming environment for all.