The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) is launching a new campaign aimed at educating college students about the values of responsible gambling and the dangers of letting their fun get out of hand. ROGA’s plan includes a host of digital tools that emphasize financial literacy as a key component in keeping the youngest legal gamblers steer clear of financial and personal ruin.
One of the biggest challenges in educating college students about the perils of problem gambling is a culture that makes gambling, especially sports betting, seem like a viable source of income. That’s where ROGA’s emphasis on financial literacy comes into play. Their campaign puts a specific focus on concepts like setting a budget, establishing a savings plan, and the long-term impact that gambling-related debt can have on their whole lives.
ROGA executive director Dr. Jennifer Shatley explained the group’s goals in a recent press release saying, “A main goal of ROGA is to promote responsible gaming education and awareness across various audiences, including the college-aged demographic. While there are already great programs focused on student-athletes, there are very few resources currently available to the broader university student population.”
“Our aim is to provide much needed information and resources about responsible gaming concepts, raise awareness of the consequences associated with problem gambling and available support services, and teach general financial literacy skills that will help students build and maintain good financial habits whether they choose to engage in gaming or not,” she added.
ROGA is collectively funded by eight major gaming operators including bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel, Hard Rock Digital and PENN Entertainment, and Bally. These companies have funded ROGA to the tune of $20 million as part of a national effort to help educate college-age Americans on the benefits of responsible gaming.