OPG Award Winners

Achieving Success One Step at a Time

From 2010 through 2020, the California Problem Gambling Awareness Summit was held annually as an in-person event. Each year, the California Department of Public Health’s Office of Problem Gambling (OPG) recognized individuals and organizations for their contributions to prevention and treatment efforts related to gambling disorder. Awards were presented at each live Summit, and prior award winners are listed below.

2020

PETER KIRCHNER, PHD

TREATMENT AWARD

As a CalGETS provider for over nine years Dr. Kirchner has provided treatment to numerous individuals seeking assistance to cope with the devastating effects of gambling disorder behaviors. His dedication to his clients provides them with the hope needed to take steps to recovery and create a healthy lifestyle.

BAY 101 CASINO

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

One of the first casinos to request responsible gambling training, Bay 101 has annually trained all levels of staff to ensure all customer touch points are informed and proactive. Bay 101 is committed to developing a culture that promotes responsible gambling.

2019

Union of Pan Asian Communities (UPAC)

TREATMENT AWARD

For their dedication to helping those who suffer from gambling disorder.

UCLA Gambling Studies Program

GOVERNMENT AWARD

For their partnership and public service in advancing gambling disorder treatment.

Eagle Mountain Casino

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

For their commitment to developing a culture that promotes responsible gambling.

2018

Charlene (Charlie) H. Hoar, Ed.D., CADC II, NCGC I, CCGC I

TREATMENT AWARD

For her ongoing dedication to helping people overcome gambling disorder, Dr. Hoar was recognized with this award. In addition to providing services to individuals and families impacted by problem gambling, she served as a CalGETS Clinical Guidance Professional, offering guidance and support to new CalGETS providers. 

California Council on Problem Gambling

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

The California Council on Problem Gambling (CalPG) was founded in 1986 to support people impacted by gambling disorder through awareness, education, prevention, and access to help. Since partnering with the Office of Problem Gambling in 2003, CalPG has expanded statewide helpline services and increased training for both the gambling industry and community partners.

2017

Suzanne Koch-Eckenrode, MFT

TREATMENT AWARD

For her dedication to supporting individuals and families impacted by gambling disorder. In addition to providing treatment services, she serves as a CalGETS Clinical Guidance Professional, offering guidance and support to new CalGETS providers.
 

The Gardens Casino

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

The Gardens Casino was recognized for its commitment to responsible gambling and player support. Their efforts help promote informed decision-making and safer gaming practices within the community.

2016

Dr. Timothy Fong

TREATMENT AWARD

For his dedication and partnership in establishing CalGETS.

Elijah James Zuniga

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

For his continued commitment to promoting responsible gambling.

Joginder Dhillon

GOVERNMENT AWARD

For his support to ensure the continuance of problem gambling services.

2015

Beit T’Shuvah Right Action Program

TREATMENT AWARD

For their dedication and partnership in providing treatment for gambling disorder.

The Bicycle Casino

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

For their commitment and support in promoting responsible gambling.

SJPD Division of Gaming Control

GOVERNMENT AWARD

For their commitment to integrity and promoting responsible gambling.

2014

Bensinger, DuPont and Associates (BDA)

TREATMENT AWARD

For their innovative approach to providing treatment and access to services.

San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

For their commitment to developing a culture that promotes responsible gambling.

Assembly Member Isadore Hall, III

GOVERNMENT AWARD

For his commitment in promoting problem gambling awareness.

2013

Dr. Eric Geffner

TREATMENT AWARD

For his problem gambling treatment efforts and commitment to the success of the CalGETS.

Pechanga Casino

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

For their commitment to responsible gambling philosophy in all aspects of your day-to-day operations.

Tulare Office of Education/FNL Partnership

GOVERNMENT AWARD

For their commitment to the BOOF project and building partnerships for positive and healthy youth development.

2012

NICOS Chinese Health Coalition

TREATMENT AWARD

For their commitment and ongoing dedication to providing treatment services within the Chinese community and their partnership in the California Problem Gambling Treatment Services Program.

California Lottery

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

For their partnership in mitigating problem gambling and dedication in promoting responsible gambling.

Department of Justice – Bureau of Gambling Control

GOVERNMENT AWARD

For their partnership and dedication in promoting responsible gambling programs.

2011

Dr. Gary Lange

TREATMENT AWARD

For his problem gambling treatment efforts and commitment to the success of the CalGETS.

Commerce Casino

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

For their pioneering efforts towards responsible gambling training for employees.

California Gambling Control Commission

GOVERNMENT AWARD

For their commitment to serving the public.

2010

Richard J. Rosenthal, M.D.

TREATMENT AWARD

For his contributions and continued support in treating problem gamblers.

Viejas Tribal Casino

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD

For their commitment to administering a responsible gaming program and continued support to mitigate problem gambling.

Jerome Horton

GOVERNMENT AWARD:

For his commitment to public service and your continued support to improving the lives of problem gamblers.