Regional Conferences in 2026

Apr 2, 2026 | Problem Gambling Conference

Two Regional NM Problem Gambling Conferences Set in 2026

May 8, 2026 | Sky City Casino | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (one day)
September 10–11, 2026 | Inn of the Mountain Gods | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (each day)

Problem gambling is often referred to as the “hidden addiction.” Unlike substance use disorders, it can remain concealed for long periods—impacting individuals and families before it is ever recognized in relationships, therapy sessions, primary care visits, or even emergency rooms. To help address this growing concern, Acoma Business Enterprises and the Mescalero Responsible Gaming Program, in cooperation with The Evolution Group, Inc., are hosting training opportunities with a spring or fall session in 2026, providing greater access for providers across New Mexico.

Why This Training Matters

Gambling disorder is complex and often misunderstood. Many professionals encounter individuals affected by problem gambling without immediately recognizing the signs. This can delay intervention and limit effective treatment. This symposium aims to:

Increase awareness of gambling disorder as a behavioral health issue
Equip providers with practical tools for identification and treatment
Address the cultural and social factors that influence gambling behaviors
Improve outcomes for individuals and families affected by problem gambling

A Comprehensive Training for Therapists

This training offers a comprehensive introduction for therapists and behavioral health providers who want to better understand and treat gambling-related issues. Participants will learn:

How to identify problem gambling in clinical and real-world settings
Evidence-based approaches to treatment
Strategies for working with co-occurring disorders
How to support clients while respecting cultural diversity and community context

Whether you are new to the topic or looking to expand your expertise, this training provides valuable insights that can be applied immediately in practice. If you are a provider looking to expand your knowledge and better serve your clients, this training is a valuable opportunity to gain practical skills and insight into gambling disorder treatment.

📅 Spring Session: 6th Annual Symposium on Problem Gambling: Two Roads Meet 2026

Date: May 8, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Sky City Casino, New Mexico

📅 Fall Session: 18th Annual Treatment Provider Training: Two Roads Meet

Dates: September 10–11, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (each day)
Location: Inn of the Mountain Gods, Mescalero, New Mexico

Supporting New Mexico Communities

By offering both a one-day session and an expanded regional conference, this symposium provides flexible opportunities for professionals across the state to participate. Strengthening awareness and treatment approaches can make a meaningful difference for individuals, families, and communities impacted by this often unseen addiction. Registration for the Spring conference in May is open now; click here to register. Please check back in the summer of 2026 for the Fall registration to open.

RGANM Opens Grant Funding Request for Proposals

Oct 31, 2025 | Problem Gambling, RGANM In The News

RGANM Opens Grant Funding Cycle for Problem Gambling Awareness and Treatment

The Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico (RGANM) has opened its 2025 grant funding cycle, offering opportunities for organizations across the state to receive support for problem gambling awareness, prevention, and treatment programs.

In past years, RGANM grants have supported a variety of organizations, including The Evolution Group, PeopleWorks, and the New Mexico Asian Family Center. These groups have used funding to provide counseling, education, and prevention services to individuals and families affected by gambling addiction.

For 2025, eligible organizations—including mental health providers, college student groups, and nonprofit health organizations—are encouraged to submit proposals. Projects may include traditional addiction treatment services or innovative new approaches to educate about problem gambling, such as community events, campus-based prevention campaigns, or other creative ideas to raise awareness about problem gambling.

Funding Details

Grants are available for up to $75,000.
Proposals may be for new startup ideas or ongoing treatment services.
Funding must be used for direct services such as prevention, education, counseling, or treatment of problem gambling (not administrative costs).

Application Requirements

Applicants should provide:

Background information on the organization, its community, and the populations it serves.
A detailed description of the proposed project, including budget, timeline, and expected impact.
Accreditation or licenses held, key staff qualifications, and prior experience with problem gambling services.
Plans for outreach and engagement, whether with the general public, youth, or specific community groups.

Organizations awarded funding will be asked to provide quarterly reports, attend an RGANM meeting, and participate in outreach activities such as Gambling Awareness Month or community events. Download the full grant proposal information here.

Deadline and How to Apply

All grant requests must be submitted on organizational letterhead and received electronically by December 5, 2025. Proposals should be sent to Shannon Dictson, [email protected]

A Great Day of Wellness and Empowerment with the RGANM

Oct 23, 2025 | Problem Gambling

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.

2025 Annual Conference

Aug 13, 2025 | Problem Gambling, Problem Gambling Conference

Last week’s Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico Conference brought together professionals, tribal representatives, and community members from across the state to address the importance of responsible gaming and behavioral health support. As part of the event, we were honored to witness a beautiful performance by the Pueblo of Acoma Dance Group. Thank you to all who attended and contributed to an inspiring and impactful conference.

Regional Problem Gambling Conferences in 2025

Feb 27, 2025 | Problem Gambling Conference, RGANM In The News

In an effort to provide continuing education to treatment providers across our large state, the Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico holds occasional workshops and symposiums on problem gambling in locations across New Mexico. Information about our annual conference is found here. Here are the more intimate, regional sessions that are scheduled for 2025:

September 25-26, 2025 at Inn of the Mountain Gods in Mescalero, NM. This will be a two-day session. Our topic is “Two Roads Meet: Problem Gambling Treatment and Therapist Well-Being”. Presenters will include Daniel Blackwood, David Lente, and Ilse Burton. Register for the session or download the agenda to learn more.
October 23-25, 2025 at the Buffalo Thunder Hotel Conference Center. This three-day session on Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories ProtocolTM will focus on problem gambling and trauma treatment. This conference is at capacity. If you’d like to know about other sessions, please email [email protected].