14/04/2026
Welcome back to our partner spotlight series, which highlights some of the fantastic organizations we work with to help our users better understand the support available.
Each of our partners does amazing work across the gambling harm space and explains, in their own words, how and when you can access these services.
Organization Name
Virginia Partnership for Gaming & Health
What We Do
The Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health (VPGH) provides coordinated access to problem gambling awareness, treatment, and recovery support across Virginia.
We support recovery by:
- Connecting individuals/families with clinicians, peer specialists, and tools (financial counseling, blocking software, support groups and self-exclusion forms). A complete Resource Handbook is available.
- Strengthening the statewide workforce through research, training, and community education.
Sean Fournia and Carolyn Hawley were interviewed on a CBS Morning show in Virginia.
Where These Services Are Available
VPGH services are available statewide across the Commonwealth of Virginia through a regional provider and peer recovery network, including both in-person and virtual support options.
Who Can Access These Services
Anyone in Virginia affected by gambling-related harm can access services, including individuals experiencing challenges with gambling, family members or loved ones seeking support, and professionals looking for training or consultation.
Azeem Majeed and Matthew Britt, facilitated the first "Chances & Choices: Understanding Gambling, Recovery, and Reentry Workshop" for probationers at the Cold Springs Community Corrections Alternative Program within the Virginia Department of Corrections.
How People Can Access These Services
Individuals can complete a confidential referral form at vpgh.org, contact the Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline, or be referred directly by healthcare providers, community organizations, or behavioral health agencies.
Elizabeth Childress, CPRS, presented on "The Impact of Peer Specialists and Virginia's Partnership for Gaming and Health."
Are These Services Free
Many VPGH services are provided at no cost, including peer recovery support, resource navigation, and referrals. Financial assistance for treatment services are also available for eligible individuals in need.
How have we made a difference?
One individual reached out feeling overwhelmed by financial stress and isolation related to gambling.
Through VPGH, they were quickly connected with a trained clinician, a peer recovery specialist with lived experience, and financial counseling resources. With ongoing follow-up support, they were able to stabilize their finances, rebuild family relationships, and begin long-term recovery.
“This is a powerful resource provided to people who find themselves in need. The guidance that was given provided me with the necessary tools to put myself back on track.”
