Teenagers and online gambling: an innovative educational programme
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18 May 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes In a world where teenagers are growing up connected, exposed to a variety of digital content from an early age, online gambling represents a new frontier with risks that are still too often ignored.
It is against this worrying backdrop that Rush Street Interactive (RSI), in partnership with Integrity Compliance 360 (IC360), has launched an innovative programme called GLAD – Gaming Literacy Aiding Decisions. This project, at the crossroads of education, prevention and social responsibility, aims to open up dialogue in classrooms on a subject that is still taboo. What if learning to play safe became a new school subject?
Objective of the GLAD programme
With the increasing accessibility of online gaming platforms, teenagers are more and more exposed to these practices. Recent studies indicate an increase in cases of problem gambling among young people, underlining the need for early educational interventions to prevent risky behaviour.
In response, RSI, operator of the BetRivers and PlaySugarHouse brands, has teamed up with IC360 to launch the GLAD programme. This initiative aims to provide teenagers with the tools they need to understand the mechanics of online gambling and adopt a responsible approach to this form of entertainment.
Implementation in schools
The GLAD programme will initially be rolled out in the states of Delaware and New Jersey. RSI and IC360 are working with school districts to integrate the programme into the school curriculum, providing teachers with appropriate resources to address responsible gambling with their students.
RSI plans to expand the GLAD programme to other states and work with more schools to reach a wider audience. The aim is to create a generation of informed young people who can make informed decisions about online gambling.
The educational content of the programme
GLAD offers a structured curriculum comprising modules on probability, the mechanics of gambling, the associated risks and strategies for making informed decisions. Specialist speakers will also lead interactive sessions to encourage dialogue and critical thinking among teenagers.
Executive quotes
Richard Schwartz, CEO of RSI, highlights the importance of this initiative:
“Consumers today have more entertainment options than ever before, including within the gaming space. We appreciate that this expanded landscape offers individuals more ways to fulfill their entertainment needs. As technology continues to evolve, entertainment options, such as online gambling, have become increasingly mainstream and accessible. Like any material societal change, this evolution requires thoughtful education and honest, open dialogue – particularly for youth who are coming of age in an environment where these choices are all around them.”
Eric Frank, co-CEO of IC360, added:
“We are proud to partner with Rush Street Interactive, a company that has not only identified the need for gambling literacy among young people, but has also taken meaningful, proactive steps to lead the way in addressing the critical educational gap. Their demonstrable commitment to supporting educators and empowering students sets a new standard for creating informed and responsible attitudes towards gambling.”
Call to action
Schools interested in integrating the GLAD programme can contact RSI or IC360 for further information and access to the teaching resources available.