Nonprofit Helps Those Struggling With Problem Gambling, Addiction

This is a paid post contributed by the New York Council on Problem Gambling. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.

The New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) was formally incorporated in 1994. NYCPG is a not-for-profit independent corporation dedicated to increasing public awareness about problem and disordered gambling and advocating for support services and treatment for persons adversely affected by problem gambling. NYCPG maintains a neutral stance on gambling and is governed by a Board of Directors.

Today, NYCPG is funded by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports and works with various organizations, stakeholders and government entities to:

• Produce and disseminate information leading to increased recognition, prevention and treatment of problem gambling.
• Conduct and publicly support research activities to establish and document areas of need.
• Provide training tools to healthcare and other professionals for the purpose of assessing and treating persons with gambling-related problems.
• Foster expanded and improved services for residents adversely affected by gambling.
• Assist industry and business leaders in developing customer-and employee-based problem gambling awareness programs.
• Conduct workshops and conferences.

NYCPG strives to meet the ongoing and evolving need to address problem gambling in New York state as gambling and the associated problems continue to expand in various forms throughout the state.

Michelle Hadden, assistant executive director, program at the New York Council on Problem Gambling recently shared these responses as part of the organization’s People, Purpose & Passion campaign.

The views expressed in this post are the author's own.

What makes you passionate about helping people with problem gambling?

Hadden: The people. I’m constantly struck by how much suffering goes on for the individual and families and how hidden they keep it because of shame. I want people to be free from the addiction, and to live life with the opportunities they have to be well and happy.

What drives your purpose for working in the field of problem gambling?

Hadden: I’m not sure I had one at first, but after a short time working in this field, it was easy to see the injustices being done to people who were suffering. There was hardly any treatment, and people had to travel miles and miles to get help. Professionals weren’t prepared for dealing with those who came forward and therefore, swept it under the rug and dealt with the “other” issues first, hoping that would resolve the gambling problem. People I talked to were alone, suffering, ashamed and hopeless. It was so hidden at the time; we weren’t talking about it in schools or talking about it as we talked about other addictions. I’m driven to bring our social and service structure in New York state to a place where we can be proud that we are truly helping people who suffer this addiction, at least as comprehensively as we do other addictions, if not more.

How have you seen problem gambling treatment services positively impact people?

Hadden: I’ve seen so many people over the years who’ve connected with treatment providers live a life they can love again. Get married, have children, work in productive ways, help others, become what they describe as “better versions of themselves.” It’s possible for everyone with help and support and I’m thrilled we can be a part of that recovery process.

What would you say to someone who might need to call?

Hadden: Just do it! Not to quote Nike but really that first step is so hard, I know, but it’s so worth it. The people we work with at the PGRC are some of the kindest I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and truly they are there to help and anxiously await your call.

What would you say to someone to encourage their partnership with NYCPG?

Hadden: I’d say we are pretty great and if you are passionate about the same things we are, we want you on our team. And if you aren’t yet passionate about preventing problem gambling and its consequences, give us an opportunity to share our passion and convince you why we can all be on the path to success in addressing this important issue in whatever ways we can as individuals. It touches so many areas where it remains hidden. You could be working in; domestic violence or on a PTA or a NY state legislator or simply just as a good friend. We never know where our next great advocates are going to come from, but we do know you are out there.

What is something you're passionate about that NYCPG is advocating for?

Hadden: Wow, to pick one thing is almost impossible for me, but it all boils down to the people. We advocate for them — not only the ones who are already facing this addiction but for the ones who are vulnerable and at-risk of developing it to begin with.

How would you describe your organization’s mission in five words?

Hadden: Here to Help: No Barriers

Do you have any new projects you are working on that you’d like to share?

Hadden: StrongerThanYouThinkNY is the message the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) is releasing to NYers today, in an effort to raise awareness about problem gambling. The People, Purpose, Passion: Pathway to Success campaign encourages NYers to show their support for problem gambling prevention, treatment and recovery. The campaign aims to inspire individuals, families, professionals and advocates across NY state to take action in finding their own pathway to success and to become partners with NYCPG.

The multifaceted campaign encourages:

• Individuals and families to reach out for information and support
• Professionals to be aware and trained to address the issue, and
• Legislators and advocates to take the time to understand the impact problem gambling has on their communities and constituents.

Do you have any upcoming events?

Hadden: We recently held a Zoom Advocacy Meeting on December 6. It was an event to bring together our partners, state advocates, and legislators to share our statewide community needs assessments, MSB expansion concerns, survey results, and recommendations for moving forward in protecting NYers. Watch the meeting video and learn how you can support our efforts now.

How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?

Hadden: Readers can learn more about our programs on our website and on Facebook and Twitter.