A new platform for the families and friends of people who have experienced gambling addiction officially announced its board of directors.
Families and Friends of Gamblers (FFOG), a web-based and mobile platform, launched last month as an independent space for these affected others, who could number in the millions in the U.S.
One gambling addiction harms 5-10 others, depending on the research.
FFOG’s Board of Directors
The platform’s initial board of directors includes:
- Professor Richard Daynard, Chairman: A trailblazer in public health law and strategic litigation, best known for his work against the tobacco industry.
- Professor Mark Gottlieb, Co-Treasurer: As Executive Director of the Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHAI), Gottlieb focuses on addressing public health harms through research, litigation, and policy.
- Dr. Harry Levant, Secretary: A leading advocate for gambling-related reform, focused on public health solutions and regulation in the gambling industry.
- W. Gordon Douglas, CPA: A former tax partner with a large national accounting firm with 40 years of experience with business clients and owners, including business transactions, estate planning for stronger protections, and policy reforms around gambling.
- Franny Maguire Glomb: An activist, advocate, executive, and philanthropist dedicated to advancing meaningful social change.
- John Hanamirian, Esq.: A tax attorney and founding shareholder with extensive experience in tax law, business transactions, litigation, and financial matters.
- Dr. Deborah Haskins: A recognized advocate for problem gambling and mental health with decades of experience in counseling, education, and gambling-related advocacy.
- Michelle McIver, LCSW: A behavioral healthcare executive with more than 18 years of experience leading organizations focused on mental health and substance use treatment.
- Dr. Thomas J. Powell: An entrepreneur and scholar with more than 30 years of experience in banking, private equity, securities law, and financial strategy.
- Brian Quinn, Esq.: A Pennsylvania attorney, advocate, and keynote speaker with five decades of legal experience, focused on professional wellness, substance use, gambling, and recovery.
Why It Matters
Other web and mobile platforms exist in the gambling harms space, but FFOG stands out for its independence and its mission to advocate for industry reform. It opposes the industry’s “responsible gaming” framework.
FFOG’s reform campaign has been named “Truth & Integrity: The Movement for Gambling Reform.”
“We are inviting people to join something new,” Daynard said. “FFOG is independent, family-first, and focused on reform.”
“You don’t have to leave other organizations, nor do you have to agree with all of our positions,” Gottlieb added. “But if you believe online gambling is an epidemic and must be treated as the public health crisis it is, we invite you to be a part of this movement.”
