PeopleWorks-NM continues to make a lasting difference in addressing problem gambling throughout New Mexico, assisted by grant funding from the Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico (RGANM). From July through September 2025, the organization reached more than 385 individuals statewide through a combination of education, therapy, and outreach initiatives supported by funding from RGANM.
Through its Problem Gambling Program, PeopleWorksNM focuses on prevention and recovery by meeting individuals where they are—whether through community events, educational classes, or one-on-one counseling. During the third quarter of 2025, the organization offered online financial education classes to 30 participants from diverse backgrounds, helping attendees strengthen their budgeting skills and reduce financial pressures that can contribute to gambling behavior.
The team also provided therapy and consultation services for those struggling with gambling or gaming addiction, including 11 individual therapy sessions and the launch of an online reservation system to simplify access to confidential support.
As part of its statewide outreach, PeopleWorksNM staff visited seven northern New Mexico senior centers, seven churches in the Santa Fe area, and several youth and health events, including presentations at Navajo Nation Chapter Houses. A public service announcement was also developed to raise awareness of the connection between gaming and gambling behaviors.
To expand awareness even further, PeopleWorksNM engaged with the public through five gambling-related social media posts, newsletters, and a blog article titled “The Unexpected Ways We Gamble.”
By combining education, therapy, and community engagement, PeopleWorksNM continues to live its mission of People Helping People—empowering New Mexicans to recognize the risks of problem gambling and find hope through recovery.
Learn more about the program at peopleworksnm.org/problem-gambling-program.
