Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts is teaming up with the Mid-Hudson Problem Gambling Resource Center to support responsible gaming practices for the US’ Problem Gambling Awareness Month and beyond.
PGAM takes place each March to highlight the help available to those who are struggling with problem gambling, bringing together a variety of stakeholders including public health organisations, treatment providers, advocacy groups and gambling operators.
According to Casino City Times, Empire City will light its porte cochère in blue and yellow to raise responsible gaming awareness during March – blue being the official colour of PGAM and yellow to support the New York Council on Problem Gambling’s ‘Shine a Light’ initiative.
On 14 March, the casino will also host a free problem gambling screening event to raise awareness and promote problem gaming prevention. The event will include a brief questionnaire, educational resources, and specialised trained responsible gaming individuals who will offer best practices and highlight problem gambling initiatives.
Empire City will also spotlight responsible gaming practices in-person with guests and employees, as well as online on its social media platforms.
“Empire City is committed to promoting responsible gaming both through GameSense and through our partnerships to ensure our employees and guests have the necessary tools and resources to facilitate and encourage a fun, safe gaming environment for all to enjoy,” stated Ed Domingo, SVP and General Manager for Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts.
2023 marks the 20th anniversary of PGAM, which takes place in March every year to coincide with the NCAA’s March Madness basketball tournament, one of the most wagered-on sporting events of the year in the US.
As part of MGM Resorts, Empire City also utilises the responsible gaming program GameSense to promote the message of responsible gambling throughout its venue.
Through GameSense, responsible gaming messaging and tips are shown prominently throughout the gaming floor and QR codes are placed on slot machines to offer access to information and educational materials.
Employees also receive annual GameSense training and some are also trained as GameSense Advisors to provide immediate support to anyone who may need it.
MGM Resorts recently extended its partnership with GameSense for an additional five years.