The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has announced the formation of its Tribal Advisory Council (TAC), consisting of executives from tribal gaming organizations across the U.S.

National Council on Problem Gambling established the Tribal Advisory Council to benefit Native American communities

The TAC will raise awareness for Native American cultures in relation to gambling. It will also promote responsible gaming and provide resources to battle problem gambling to help Native and non-Native communities.

Additionally, the Advisory Council will provide expertise for NCPG’s culturally specific work while recognizing the importance of Native American history and sovereignty in consultation with Native American leaders and experts. 

The new council will initially consist of eight members, including Four Winds Casinos EVP Raquel Buari, Mohegan president and CEO Ray Pineault, Wondr Nation CEO Anika Howard, and Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association chairman Matthew Morgan.

Maria Lopez, Pascua Yaqui Tribal Gaming Office executive director, and James Siva, California Nations Indian Gaming Association chairman, are also among the members.

Shannon Dictson, president of the Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico, and Jacob Coin, executive advisor to the San Manuel Tribal Council and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, complete the TAC’s council.

NCPG partners with The Trilogy Group, a Native American-owned and operated organization

Keith Whyte, NCPG executive director, said: “Our work with tribes is based on a deep respect for tribal sovereignty and our core values of neutrality, collaboration, respect, and credibility.

“We have a responsibility to listen and learn, as well as the opportunity to share our knowledge as we seek to reduce the social costs of gambling addiction and improve health and wellness in all communities.

“The relationships and partnerships we have forged over the years are the strong foundation for this exciting new project.”

Furthermore, the NCPG has also partnered with Native American-owned firm The Trilogy Group. The Trilogy Group is a Native American-owned and operated organization. It has over 50 years of combined experience in governmental affairs, business, economic development, and Tribal gaming.

Valerie Spicer, Trilogy Group founding partner and CEO, added: “We applaud the formation of the NCPG’s Tribal Advisory Council and look forward to supporting stronger connection with the Tribes.

“This work acknowledges the significance of tribal gaming in the gambling sector, the impacts of tribal gaming on communities, and ways we can support finding balance in helping people heal from gambling-related harm respectfully amid the complexity.”

After the launch of the TAC, members of the new body will participate in two sessions at the National Conference on Gambling Addiction and Responsible Gambling, in San Diego, between July 17 and 19.