Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays here at the CCGNJ. Living in a fast-paced world, sometimes we forget to take a deep breath and reflect on the little things in life that we have to be grateful for. That being said, we feel that it’s appropriate to open up and give you an unfiltered, inside look at some (of the many) things that bring us joy.
What is 1-800-GAMBLER and the Council on Compulsive Gambling of NJ thankful for?
- – Incredible people – Neva Pryor (Executive Director of the CCGNJ) said it best, “Every single day I interact with amazing individuals. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to the state of NJ, my hardworking team, and our Board of Directors. We hear stories that inspire, and we learn gambling treatment methodologies that help to transform lives of those in need.”
From the amazing organizational representatives we met at our annual conference, to families of problem gamblers that share inspirational tales about their loved ones, you make it all worthwhile. From the bottom of our heart – thank you! We are eternally grateful to be in a position to connect with so many diverse people.
We would also like to acknowledge the Lottery, Casinos, and the Horse racing industry for supporting our cause by encouraging responsible gaming.
So, because once is not enough…THANK YOU.
- – Tremendous resources – These includes researchers, scientists, doctors, certified gambling counselors, social workers and others who provide first-hand studies that help us better understand gambling behaviors and treatments.
In addition to these dedicated souls who donate valuable time, money and commitment, we are thankful for the brochures, help hotlines, text lines, Gamblers Anonymous meeting databases, conventions, conferences and everything else that plays a part in assisting addicted gamblers stray away from a potentially fatal lifestyle. A gambler can become involved with bookies, slot machines, illegal sports betting in Atlantic City, illegal sports betting around the Meadowlands (NJ), and even cross-addictions with various drugs, which can be a scary (and dangerous) way of life.
- – Love, Respect, Ethics, Care and Compassion – We are thankful that we live in a community (and a world) with so many caring and compassionate people. We do not take what we do for granted, and we never will. Simply put, we love what we do. We love being able to make a difference, and we respect everybody we interact with. We take pride in seeing the best in everybody, no matter your background. Everybody deserves respect and ethical treatment, and we are grateful that we run in a crowd full of progressive, forward-thinking leaders in our space.
- – Good food – MMMM, MMMM, MMMMMM! From turkey and stuffing to mashed potatoes and gravy, there’s something for everybody at the Thanksgiving table.
(Image Source)So, when you sit down for dinner on November 24th, take a moment to think about everything you have to be thankful for, everything you’d be devastated to lose and everything you can do to make the best of every single day on this earth. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please offer them the gift of recovery over this holiday season by having them visit the 800Gambler website or calling the hotline or chat, 1-800-Gambler. There you will find support, treatment and hope.
THANK YOU.
THANK YOU.
THANK YOU.