NCPG Annual Gift Responsibly Campaign Now at Its Highest Level of Participation, Bolstered By “Too Young to Bet”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) today announced a record-high level of participation in its annual Gift Responsibly Campaign, surpassing the previous year’s participation by over 30%.  

The Gift Responsibly Campaign works to educate communities about the dangers of gifting lottery tickets to children and raises awareness about the risks of youth gambling. In 2025, NCPG added the “Too Young to Bet” campaign option to address other forms of gambling that children may be exposed to, such as online gambling. 

Research supports that the earlier a child is exposed to or participates in gambling, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure can occur in a variety of ways, such as when a child receives a lottery ticket as a gift or participates in gambling activities with a parent or family member. This exposure is often facilitated by an adult who is likely unaware of the associated risks.   

Throughout November and December, participating organizations will work to educate their local communities about the dangers of underage gambling. The campaign offers a variety of levels for organizations to participate in an increasing volume of campaign activities during the holiday season. Participant activities include, but are not limited to, public service announcements, social media messaging, digital advertising, in-store signage, retailer training, and other activities. 

This year’s participation in the Gift Responsibly Campaign has soared to 67 Lotteries, 165 Community Partners, and 2 Non-Lottery Gambling Operators: Bally’s & PrizePicks, indicating the relevancy and applicability of Too Young to Bet to the core Gift Responsibly Campaign. Whether participants choose to prioritize different aspects of the campaign, the key takeaway is clear: No one type of gambling is acceptable – or safe – for children. 

View the Full List of 2025 Participants Here.  

“Young people are increasingly exposed to gambling long before they’re ready to understand the risks. Through the Gift Responsibly and Too Young to Bet campaigns, we’re equipping parents and educators with information about the importance of keeping gambling out of kids’ hands,” said Derek Longmeier, NCPG Board President. “This year’s record-breaking participation from lotteries, gambling operators, and community organizations around the world shows just how deeply this message resonates. Building strong awareness today helps safeguard the well-being of future generations.” 

For the eighth consecutive year, 100% of eligible US and Canadian lotteries have signed on to support the Gift Responsibly Campaign. These lotteries are joined by 13 international lotteries and numerous community organizations, expanding the reach of the Campaign far beyond North America. Endorsed by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, the World Lottery Association, and the European Lotteries, the campaign stands as a collaborative, international effort to safeguard the well-being of young people. 

The Gift Responsibly & Too Young to Bet Campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University and is supported by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).