Books Before Bets: 

Understanding gambling as a post-secondary student.

Designed by students, for students to increase awareness of gambling, risks, harms, and supports

Young adults, including those on post-secondary campuses, are increasingly exposed to gambling and sports betting through online advertising, social media, sports culture, and everyday campus life. Building awareness of risk and encouraging informed decision-making are important steps toward preventing gambling-related harms as gambling becomes more accessible.

Books Before Bets is a free, evidence-informed peer education module for post-secondary students. The training is co-developed by RGC in partnership with students and peer education staff. The module and accompanying facilitation guide are designed to equip peer educators with the knowledge, guidance, and tools to lead engaging conversations about gambling, sports betting, risk, and harm prevention, while helping their fellow students connect with available supports and resources.

Please note: Books Before Bets is currently only available for download in Ontario. To request access outside of Ontario, please contact us at YoungAdultsTraining@rgco.org and our team will be in touch shortly.

Turn-key Training Solution

  • Facilitated by peer educators and co-developed with post-secondary students to be engaging, relevant, and relatable
  • Interactive, one-hour module that is easy to implement and facilitate
  • Evidence-informed content grounded in current research and leading practices in peer education and gambling harm prevention

 

Bring Books Before Bets to your campus!

1. Download the Facilitator Guide featuring clear instructions, key information, practical tips, and additional resources.
2. Download the Presentation Deck, covering key areas:

  • How gambling and sports betting show up in post-secondary student life
  • The risks, impacts, and warning signs of gambling-related harm
  • Practical strategies for reducing risk
  • Available support services and resources for students seeking help

3. Don’t forget to share your mailing address and proposed date for delivering the module so we can send you materials for the session.

It looks like this material is restricted based on your location. Please contact us at YouthTraining@rgco.org, and someone will be in touch shortly.

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