SHU Receives $4K Grant for Problem Gambling Awareness

Activities planned to educate entire community, not just those struggling with addiction

The Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG) has awarded Sacred Heart University a $4,000 grant to raise awareness about problem gambling. The money will fund polls to gauge how much gambling is taking place on campus and guest speakers to discuss the impact that problem wagering has had on their lives.

The CCPG is a non-profit agency dedicated to reducing harmful gaming behaviors and helping people who are experiencing gambling’s negative impacts. The organization collaborates with behavioral health experts, community stakeholders, the state gambling regulatory agency, the gambling industry and the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addictions Services’ Problem Gambling Services division.

Brian Dolan, SHU recovery program coordinator, said the funds also will be used to educate students, faculty and staff about problem gambling, including warning signs, resources and other factors. He said problem gambling is less visible than other addictions because there are no physical symptoms.

This is the second year Sacred Heart has received the grant. Last year, the University hosted Craig Carton from Fox Sports to share his experience with problem gambling. Another event for students and staff focused on warning signs and resources.

“I love that we at Sacred Heart are normalizing these conversations,” said Dolan. “Whether you are an individual battling addiction or have a loved one or roommate struggling, addiction makes us feel alone. One of my favorite mottos is, ‘Suffer silently, recover loudly.’”

Dolan encourages students and staff to attend the educational events and to help spread awareness about problem gambling.