OAPGG Joins 2025 Too Young to Bet Campaign to Raise Awareness of Youth Gambling Risks
(Norman, OK) – The Oklahoma Association on Problem Gambling and Gaming (OAPGG) today announced its participation in the 2025 Too Young to Bet Campaign, a newly-introduced participation option for the annual Gift Responsibly Campaign.
OAPGG joins lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world to raise awareness about the risks of underage gambling. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and supported by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).
Research shows that the earlier a child is exposed to or participates in gambling, the greater their risk of developing a gambling problem either immediately or later in life. Many adults may introduce gambling activities, such as sports betting or scratch-off tickets, without understanding the potential risks.
“Nearly 1 in 3 adult Oklahomans are experiencing harms related to gambling,” said Dr. Wiley Harwell, executive director of OAPGG. “We want to prevent problem gambling among Oklahoma youth.”
During the month of December, OAPGG will promote awareness about the risks of underage gambling by sharing facts about underage gambling on social media and its website.
“Youth gambling is a growing risk that too often goes overlooked. The Too Young to Bet Campaign plays a vital role in helping families and communities understand the importance of keeping gambling products out of kids’ hands,” said Derek Longmeier, President of NCPG’s Board of Directors. “We’re grateful to OAPGG for joining this effort and working to expand education and awareness to protect young people from gambling-related harm.”
As the Oklahoma state affiliate of the National Council on Problem Gambling, OAPGG is a gambling neutral organization that is committed to addressing problem gambling throughout Oklahoma. OAPGG works with tribal nations to host the statewide self-exclusion program, provides training for counselors and other stakeholders, and provides a free app that anyone in the state can use to stay safe, cut back, or quit gambling.
About the National Council on Problem Gambling
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is neutral on legalized gambling. Based in Washington DC, NCPG is the only national nonprofit organization that seeks to minimize the economic and social costs associated with gambling addiction. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame. Call 1-800-522-4700, text 800GAM, or visit www.ncpgambling.org/chat. Help is available 24/7 – it is free and confidential.