Centennial State News

The Colorado Lottery has been instrumental in funding projects that support the state's natural beauty and education, investing over $4.3 billion thanks to its players. The organization is committed to promoting responsible gambling, which it considers one of its three main operational pillars alongside revenue and conservation.

Throughout the year, the Colorado Lottery conducts campaigns aimed at raising awareness about problem gambling. These initiatives help players recognize warning signs, learn healthy play strategies, understand winning odds, and access resources for assistance.

During March's Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), efforts intensify with events like Problem Gambling Awareness Day at the Colorado State Capitol on February 26. This event involved collaboration with partners to emphasize problem gambling awareness and safety measures for players.

The Lottery's player health program operates year-round to enhance gambling literacy and promote responsible practices. Initiatives include underage compliance checks, age verification on kiosks, NASPL/NCPG Responsible Gambling Verification accreditation, partnerships with service providers, participation in PGAM activities, and educational campaigns such as Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM) and Gift Responsibly during holidays.

Additional efforts encompass a full-time player health program manager role, adherence to a responsible gambling marketing code of conduct, training for employees and affiliates, and direct engagement with players about positive play strategies.

The Lottery provides several tips for responsible gambling: treat it as entertainment rather than income generation; set a budget; take breaks; avoid gambling when experiencing negative emotions; set spending limits; balance it with other activities.

Players are encouraged to use tools like the Gambling Myths Quiz or Find Your Limits Tool to assess their habits. For more information or support regarding problem gambling in Colorado, individuals can contact the Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado or reach out 24/7 via call or text at 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org for confidential assistance.