Ruidoso, NM — The Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico (RGANM) participated in a day dedicated to health, empowerment, and community connection through its “Walk by the Lake: Walking for Empowerment” and Health & Wellness Fair at Grindstone Lake. The annual event brought together hundreds of participants, local healthcare partners, and community organizations with one shared mission—to promote healthy, balanced, and responsible living across New Mexico. Members of the Association distributed information about setting limits on gambling and the importance of responsible gambling, whether that’s at the casino, a sports bet, or online gaming.
Walking for Empowerment
The morning began with the Walk by the Lake, where 80 participants took part in an inspiring walk along the scenic Grindstone Lake Trail. The walk served as a symbol of both physical and emotional well-being, encouraging individuals to take active steps toward healthier lifestyles.
For RGANM, events like this go beyond exercise—they’re a reminder that responsible gaming starts with overall wellness. By focusing on physical activity, social connection, and mental health, participants learned that balance in everyday life contributes to balance in decision-making. The event encouraged everyone to take time for themselves, engage in healthy habits, and seek out resources that support both their physical and emotional well-being.
Community Health and Wellness in Action
Following the walk, the Health & Wellness Fair drew an impressive 706 visitors, each signing in to visit a diverse lineup of 83 community and healthcare booths. The fair provided access to valuable preventive health screenings, educational materials, and one-on-one support from professionals throughout New Mexico.
A wide range of local health partners offered free or low-cost services to attendees:
- Lincoln County Medical Center administered 82 flu vaccinations and completed 85 lipid and glucose screenings.
- Indian Health Services (IHS) provided 78 flu vaccinations, 45 COVID-19 vaccinations, and distributed 10 colon cancer screening kits.
- Assured Imaging’s Mammogram Coach helped 35 women receive essential mammogram screenings.
- United Blood Services collected blood donations from 40 generous participants, helping support hospitals statewide.
- New Mexico Lions KidSight performed vision screenings for 5 children and 4 adults, distributing 140 free glasses order forms to those in need.
- New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) conducted 16 STI tests, while UNM Truman Health Services performed 20 HIV and Hepatitis C screenings.
- PeopleWorks–NM offered mental health screenings and interventions, reminding attendees that emotional wellness is equally important as physical health.
Each organization played a vital role in expanding access to care and awareness of the many services available throughout New Mexico.
Promoting Responsible Choices and Healthy Lifestyles
The Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico’s mission is to help individuals and communities understand that responsible gaming is part of a bigger picture—one that includes self-care, mental health, and community connection. By hosting the Walk by the Lake and Wellness Fair, RGANM continues to highlight the link between balanced living and making responsible choices, both in gaming and everyday life.
The event not only brought essential health resources to the Ruidoso community but also created opportunities for education and engagement. Visitors learned about healthy habits, preventive screenings, and local mental health resources—tools that empower individuals to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Building a Healthier Future for New Mexico
The success of this year’s event reflects RGANM’s ongoing commitment to community outreach and public education. With hundreds of participants and dozens of organizations collaborating, the Walk by the Lake and Health & Wellness Fair showed the impact that collective effort can have on improving wellness and awareness statewide.
“We’re proud to see so many individuals and families come together in the spirit of health, connection, and empowerment,” said Shannon Dictson, President of the Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico. “Our goal is to promote balance and responsibility—not only in gaming, but in every aspect of life.”
By working alongside healthcare partners, nonprofits, and tribal and state agencies, RGANM continues to provide resources that promote healthy lifestyles and responsible behaviors across New Mexico communities.
For more information about upcoming Responsible Gaming New Mexico events, educational resources, or support programs, follow the Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico on social media.
