DraftKings Makes $1.5 Million+ Nationwide Pledge Supporting State Safe Gambling Councils

DraftKings made a noteworthy announcement at the beginning of the week, revealing their plans to contribute $1.5 million over several years to support state gambling councils in financing safe gambling initiatives through local nonprofit organizations. Named The State Council Funding Program, this agreement is set to commence this month and undergo a trial period lasting three years.

DraftKings has introduced a new initiative where they are providing a yearly payment of $15,000 to each state council for a duration of three years. The total commitment to each state amounts to $1,575,000 over the course of three years.

Regarding the new initiative, Christine Thurmond, the director of responsible gaming at DraftKings, shared her thoughts by stating,

In partnership with state councils throughout the U.S., DraftKings is dedicated to promoting responsible gaming. We aim to provide the necessary financial support to these councils, enabling them to allocate resources towards priority areas, enhance services, or increase staffing. Our ultimate goal is to assist in meeting their specific needs and contribute to the further development of responsible gaming initiatives.

Councils will have discretionary power on using funds

Every council has the freedom to manage funds as they see fit, in order to enhance services and programs for families, individuals, and council staff. Additionally, state councils can utilize the funding to assess the possibility of developing capabilities in neighboring states that do not have a council.

Keith Whyte, Executive Director of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), acknowledged the crucial role played by state councils in addressing the needs of those affected by problem gambling. He highlighted the limited resources and funding these organizations often face, hindering their ability to enhance treatment and prevention efforts. Whyte commended DraftKings for their substantial initiative, which demonstrates their recognition of the significance of the work carried out by state councils.

DraftKings has always been vocal about their commitment to responsible gaming, and this collaboration is just one aspect of their broader efforts in promoting it.

DraftKings’ Active Year in Ensuring Responsible Gaming

Following a highly productive year of responsible gaming efforts undertaken by DraftKings, the announcement of the State Council Funding Program has been made. Throughout 2021, DraftKings has been actively involved in implementing various initiatives through its responsible gaming department. Some of these initiatives include:

• We have made financial commitments to fund evidence-based research focused on addictive and problem gaming.
• We have established a partnership with the American Gaming Association’s public ad campaign, Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly™.
• Cambridge Health Alliance, Division on Addiction, Harvard Medical School have joined forces to establish an innovative systems-based approach for the training of employees in responsible gaming.
• Responsible gaming education and marketing will be expanded through various channels including email, social media, the sportsbook, and in-stadium advertisements.
• The company plans to expand its in-house programs to further promote and enhance its outreach efforts for the safe gaming team.

Last year, DraftKings formed a partnership with the NFL and NCPG to further their efforts in promoting problem gambling prevention and treatment. As part of this initiative, they committed to investing $6.2 million over three years to support various local and state programs.

With the increasing legalization of gambling across the nation, it is crucial to prioritize safe and responsible gaming. DraftKings Sportsbook, being legally available in 17 states, has gained immense popularity and is now one of the leading sportsbooks nationwide.

DraftKings is leveraging its position not only to advocate for safe and responsible gambling practices but also placing utmost importance on both funding and supporting programs aimed at enhancing gaming experiences for everyone.