Missouri Alliance Celebrates Five-Year Anniversary

In December, the Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling celebrated five years of successful work promoting responsible gaming throughout the state. Formed in 1997, the alliance represents a unique partnership of public, private and nonprofit organizations that recognize the need to address the social problems and costs that are created when individuals have problems handling the product or service that the state or gaming industry provide.
 
While the initial goal of the alliance was to promote its toll-free help line (1-888-BETSOFF) directing problem gamblers to free treatment programs, the organization's purpose has expanded far beyond this project. Programs undertaken by the alliance have grown to include self-exclusion programs, Missouri Responsible Gaming Week, production of collateral materials for the general population as well as individual programs targeted for older adults and youth, educational lectures, extensive public-awareness programs including an in-school youth awareness assembly series, an educator video and facilitator's guide for youth, commercials and public service announcements.
 
"Through the dedication of the alliance's membership, problem gambling programs have expanded every year, and plans are under way to continue program expansion," said Mike Ryan, alliance chairman.
 
The alliance's membership represents a broad cross-section of groups committed to addressing problem gambling. Founding members include the Missouri Department of Mental Health, the Missouri Gaming Commission, the Missouri Lottery and the Missouri Riverboat Gaming Association. In 1999, the Missouri Council on Problem Gambling Concerns Inc. joined the alliance, and last year the Port Authority of Kansas City became a member.

"Our goal is to include every organization and individual who has an interest in increasing problem gambling awareness in Missouri," Ryan said. "Our participating membership, which includes research specialists, educators, treatment providers and other interested individuals, also continues to grow."

The alliance has served as a model for other states interested in raising awareness of problem gambling and promoting responsible gaming. Said American Gaming Association President and CEO Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr.: "Missouri has given us a blueprint of how to work collaboratively to really make a difference."