Achieving Success One Step at a Time
Award Winners
Each year at the Summit, the Office of Problem Gambling (OPG) recognizes individuals or organizations that have achieved success in assisting OPG in its mission to provide quality, research-driven leadership in prevention and treatment of gambling disorder.
Since 2010, awardees have been recognized in the categories of treatment, responsible gambling and government who have made significant contributions improving the lives of problem gamblers, their families and communities. Awards are presented providing a unique opportunity to celebrate each awardee’s accomplishments.
2020
TREATMENT AWARD:
Peter Kirchner, PhD
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.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
Bay 101 Casino
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
TREATMENT AWARD:
Union of Pan Asian Communities (UPAC)
For their dedication to helping those who suffer from gambling disorder.
GOVERNMENT AWARD:
UCLA Gambling Studies Program
For their commitment to public service and continued partnership in the development and implementation of gambling disorder treatment.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
Eagle Mountain Casino
For their commitment to developing a culture that promotes responsible gambling.
2018
TREATMENT AWARD:
Charlene (Charlie) H. Hoar, Ed.D., CADC II, NCGC I, CCGC I
Dr. Hoar became an authorized CalGETS provider in February 2011. In addition to providing services to problem gamblers and their families, Dr. Hoar is also a Clinical Guidance Professional for CalGETS, offering guidance and expertise to new CalGETS providers. Her ongoing dedication to helping people overcome the struggle with gambling disorder has made her incredibly deserving of this award.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
California Council on Problem Gambling
The California Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG) was founded in 1986, dedicated to assisting problem gamblers and their families by promoting awareness, education, research, prevention and treatment for gambling disorder. CCPG became a natural partner when OPG was established in 2003. Since then, CCPG has continued to increase efforts to help problem gamblers by expanding helpline services and providing training to law enforcement agencies and gambling industry employees.
2017
TREATMENT AWARD:
Suzanne Koch Eckenrode, MFT
For her dedication and leadership in treating problem gamblers and their loved ones.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
The Gardens Casino
For their dedication to administering a top notch responsible gambling program.
2016
TREATMENT AWARD:
Dr. Timothy Fong
For his dedication and partnership in establishing CalGETS.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
Elijah James Zuniga
For his continued commitment to promoting responsible gambling.
GOVERNMENT AWARD:
Joginder Dhillon
For his support to ensure the continuance of problem gambling services.
2015
TREATMENT AWARD:
Beit T’Shuvah Right Action Program
For their dedication and partnership in providing treatment for gambling disorder.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
The Bicycle Casino
For their commitment and support in promoting responsible gambling.
GOVERNMENT AWARD:
SJPD Division of Gaming Control
For their commitment to integrity and promoting responsible gambling.
2014
TREATMENT AWARD:
Bensinger, DuPont and Associates (BDA)
For their innovative approach to providing treatment and access to services.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino
For their commitment to developing a culture that promotes responsible gambling.
GOVERNMENT AWARD:
Assembly Member Isadore Hall, III
For his commitment in promoting problem gambling awareness.
2013
TREATMENT AWARD:
Dr. Eric Geffner
For his problem gambling treatment efforts and commitment to the success of the CalGETS.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
Pechanga Casino
For their commitment to responsible gambling philosophy in all aspects of your day-to-day operations.
GOVERNMENT AWARD:
Tulare Office of Education/FNL Partnership
For their commitment to the BOOF project and building partnerships for positive and healthy youth development.
2012
TREATMENT AWARD:
NICOS Chinese Health Coalition
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.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
California Lottery
For their partnership in mitigating problem gambling by serving on the Office of Problem Gambling Advisory Board, participation in Problem Gambling Awareness Week efforts and dedication in promoting responsible gambling.
GOVERNMENT AWARD:
Department of Justice – Bureau of Gambling Control
For their partnership and dedication in promoting responsible gambling programs including the
administration of the statewide Self-exclusion Program.
2011
TREATMENT AWARD:
Dr. Gary Lange
For his problem gambling treatment efforts and commitment to the success of the CalGETS.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
Commerce Casino
For their pioneering efforts towards responsible gambling training for employees.
GOVERNMENT AWARD:
California Gambling Control Commission
For their commitment to serving the public by mandating responsible gambling programs and
MICS for cardrooms.
2010
TREATMENT AWARD:
Richard J. Rosenthal, M.D.
For his contributions and continued support in treating problem gamblers.
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING AWARD:
Viejas Tribal Casino
For their commitment to administering a responsible gaming program and continued support to mitigate problem gambling.
GOVERNMENT AWARD:
Jerome Horton
For his commitment to public service and your continued support to improving the lives of problem gamblers.