Addressing gambling addiction — from prevention to treatment to advocacy — truly takes the proverbial village. One essential part of that effort is gaming operators, who work on the frontlines of the gambling environment every day.
The example set by Jackpot Junction Casino, located about two hours west of Minneapolis, demonstrates how a gaming operator can play a meaningful role in promoting responsible gambling and protecting its patrons.
It starts with a commitment from the top. “Our mission statement represents our philosophical beliefs,” says Steve Griffiths, general manager of Jackpot Junction. “It reflects our belief in protecting our community from harm and in making sure our staff recognizes those who may show signs of problem gambling.”
That commitment is clearly articulated in the casino’s mission statement, which is prominently featured in its human resources materials:
The Lower Sioux Indian Community and Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel do not seek to profit from the illness of others. Our responsibility is to ensure that gambling remains an entertainment activity, never a source of harm. We are committed to staff training, heightened awareness, and clear protocols that help our team recognize and respond to signs of problem gambling and underage gambling. Through compassionate action, information, and access to support resources, we work to protect our guests, our community and the integrity of our operations.
How Jackpot Junction Supports Responsible Gambling
- Providing staff training to help employees recognize signs of problem gambling and offer appropriate resources when needed.
- Offering a self-exclusion program for patrons who wish to limit their access to gambling. Coordinating the production of public service announcements with media partners — often at no cost.
- Displaying responsible gambling messaging on billboards, internal television monitors and in printed materials to reinforce awareness.
- Giving patrons the option at redemption kiosks to donate spare change to charitable organizations, including Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling.
Steve notes that if five to 10 other casinos offered the same donation option at their redemption kiosks, it could generate a few thousand dollars per month in important, non-restrictive funding for MNAPG.
“There is real responsibility when you run these establishments,” Steve adds. “Gambling revenue is the lifeblood for many tribes, but it has to be balanced with a commitment to doing things the right way. That’s why we’ve put these measures in place — so we can help ensure gambling remains entertainment and not something that causes harm.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Jackpot Junction promote responsible gambling?
Jackpot Junction promotes responsible gambling through staff training to recognize signs of problem gambling, offering self-exclusion programs, displaying responsible gambling messaging throughout the casino, and coordinating public service announcements with media partners.
Can I donate to MNAPG at a casino?
Yes. At Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel, patrons have the option to donate spare change to charitable organizations, including MNAPG, directly at redemption kiosks.
Why is casino staff training important for responsible gambling?
Staff training is essential because casino employees are on the frontlines and can recognize signs of problem gambling or underage gambling, allowing them to offer appropriate support resources before harm escalates.