Aboriginal Responsible Gambling Strategy
WELCOME - Gambling with our Culture -
What's at Stake?
"We would like to pay tribute to those individuals who have recognized and accepted their addiction(s) and have moved forward to sharing with others while walking the healing road. You are the 'northern stars' as you guide us on our way."
In the Spirit of Unity and Friendship ...
- Kathy Adcock, Program Coordinator
"Life is a journey. The Elders have said that everything that happens to us in this life, good and bad, happens for a purpose and that we take from these experiences and learn from them as we
continue our journey in this life. Everybody has a dream and dreams can become a reality. In order for one to make them a reality, one must make sacrifices to attain their dreams. Life is what you make it and nowhere is it written that there are limits to what we can achieve as First Nations people. Stand tall and remain proud. In spirit."
- "Author Unknown"
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Promotion ● Prevention ● Training/Education
Resource Development ● Advocacy/Support
The Nishnawbe Aski Nation Aboriginal Responsible Gambling Strategy is a prevention program that supports NAN communities in their efforts to reduce the harm associated with problem gambling.
The program is currently developing wholistic approaches that address problem gambling in a culturally appropriate manner and include: community training and information workshops; resource development; reviewing and approving community proposals and monitoring projects; and providing assistance and support to community front line staff.
Goals
- To create public awareness on gambling addictions.
- To provide prevention/education initiatives through community
participation. - To assist communities with resource development.
- To assist with community capacity building.
History - Behind the Scenes
In 1999, the Aboriginal Responsible Gambling Strategy was developed out of concern for the effects of problem gambling addictions on First Nation families and communities.
- The Ministry of Health Ontario Substance Abuse
Bureau provides funds to establish the Provincial
Aboriginal Problem Gambling Strategy. - All Ontario Chiefs pass a resolution in support of the Strategy.
- NAN Chiefs sign and support a resolution for NAN to participate.
- Nine Political/Provincial Territorial Organizations (PTO's) are involved.
- The program was transferred to Mental Health and Addictions.
- This program is currently operated by the new Ministry
of Health Promotion since the Spring of 2006.
