March 2001
Governor Jesse Ventura proclaimed the week of February 5 - 11, 2001 as Problem Gambling Awareness Week in Minnesota. Planning for the week originated nearly a year ago within the public awareness subcommittee of the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Problem Gambling Advisory Committee. While previous efforts have focused on the problem gambler, members of the subcommittee felt it was important to emphasize the impact that problem gambling has on affected others. "Putting a Face on Problem Gambling" was selected as the theme for the week.
The week was filled with a variety of activities: various media events, mailings to professionals and other organizations, workshops, trainings, forums and a statewide conference. A number of new public awareness materials were created for the week and are highlighted and described in this edition of Beyond the Odds. Additional copies of most materials are available, at no cost, by calling the Gambling Problems Resource Center (GPRC) at
While it is essential to continuously keep problem gambling issues in front of the public, periodic efforts such as the Problem Gambling Awareness Week can be effective in focusing attention on an issue that many people do not always view as a priority. The week was the culmination of hard work and contributions of many people: recovering gamblers and their loved ones, treatment professionals, DHS staff and Advisory Committee, conference presenters from within and outside of Minnesota, and staff of the GPRC.
A big thank you is in order to all who helped make the week a success.
In This Issue
Gambling Problems Resource Center
2720 Highway 10
Mounds View, MN 55112