A Message from the ECPG Executive Director

Welcome to the…

Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling

The transition from summer to fall has always been a welcome change for me.  As autumn comes to the Pacific Northwest, there are exciting changes to share with you about the Washington State Council on Problem Gambling.  Most notable, perhaps, is our new name:  Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling.

Our new name continues to connect us to our roots in The Evergreen State.  Washington’s forests, like its mountains, are true icons.  From the tallest evergreen fir to the ferns on the forest floor, we are reminded of the abundant green from which our state nickname comes.

An unfurling fern takes its place as the centerpiece of our new logo.  Like the native Maori Koru, this symbol represents life, growth, movement, new energy, strength, and peace.  The opening leaves reach toward the light, encouraging new, positive beginnings. 

This representation of renewal and hope for the future perfectly symbolizes our Council’s Mission and the programs and services we provide.

The Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling is dedicated to increasing public awareness
of problem gambling, expanding the availability of services for problem gamblers and
their families, and encouraging research and programs for prevention and education.

Being able to believe in new, positive beginnings is important for anyone affected by problem gambling.  Hope and Help are keys to this.

Problem, or compulsive, gambling is a real disorder—similar to alcohol, drug, or sexual addictions.  Fortunately, most people can enjoy recreational gambling responsibly.  For some, that becomes impossible.  While it may be a small percentage of our population, when you, or someone you love, has a gambling addiction, it is not a small problem.  Broken marriages, bankruptcy, depression, and even suicide can result.

That is why the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling strives to provide support and services, such as the statewide Helpline (800.547.6133).  The toll-free, confidential Problem Gambling Helpline provides information about problem gambling and referrals to professional treatment and support programs.

The Council offers education and public awareness programs to a wide variety of community and professional groups through presentations, workshops, and conferences.  The Council offers training and certification programs for treatment professionals, including qualified training for certification and continuing education hours through the National Council on Problem Gambling and the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC).

The Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling works with the Gaming Industry to provide employee training and responsible gaming policy and program development.  We are happy to work with schools and youth groups, educators and PTAs, civic and social service organizations, and others to develop and tailor education and awareness programs to meet your needs.

I welcome you to visit us in our new offices in Olympia, Washington, at 1929 Fourth Avenue East.  Learn more about our organization here at our website www.evergreencpg.org.  And, please, feel free to call if you would like additional information, have thoughts and comments to share, or would like to schedule a presentation or training event.

Thank You for the continued support and partnership of our many long-standing friends.  And, welcome to new friends and partners who will help the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling grow and move forward, with new energy and strength, into the future.

Warmly,

Maureen Greeley
Executive Director

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