December 3, 2025

(Radford, Virginia) – New River Valley Community Services (NRVCS) today announced its commitment as a Non-Lottery Participant of the 2025 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. 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 supports that early exposure to or participation in gambling during childhood is highly correlated with the development of a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through a lottery product, such as lottery tickets or scratch offs. Often these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks.

“Today’s young people are being exposed to a constant stream of advertising and promotion for gambling – through social media, televised sporting events, streaming services and gaming – it’s literally everywhere these days,” notes Mike Wade, Coordinator of Community Wellness and Outreach at NRVCS. “So, it’s important for parents and caregivers to have age-appropriate conversations with their children about the associated risks and potential consequences of gambling.”

As a participant of the 2025 Gift Responsibly Campaign, during the month of December, NRVCS will work to promote awareness about the risks of underage lottery use via its social media channels, and weekly communication with various community stakeholders.

“Youth gambling is a growing risk that too often goes overlooked. The Gift Responsibly Campaign plays a vital role in helping families and communities understand the importance of keeping lottery products out of kids’ hands,” said Derek Longmeier, President of NCPG’s Board of Directors. “We’re grateful to New River Valley Community Services for joining this effort and working to expand education and awareness to protect young people from gambling-related harm.”

NRVCS has additional information and resources related to problem gambling prevention available on their website at nrvcs.org/safebet.

About New River Valley Community Services
New River Valley Community Services (NRVCS) is the leading public provider of behavioral health services to residents of the New River Valley. The agency has served individuals and families affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders, as well as those living with developmental disabilities, since 1969. Crisis services are available 24/7 by dialing 9-8-8. Learn more at nrvcs.org.

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.