Share the Don’t Regret the Bet Campaign
Michigan Gaming Control Board
HELP PROTECT STUDENTS FROM GAMBLING RISKS: SHARE THE “DON’T REGRET THE BET” CAMPAIGN
Across Michigan, students are growing up in a sports culture that increasingly includes betting promotions, online gaming advertisements, and gambling content across social media and televised events. While these messages are designed for adults, young people see them often — and that exposure can shape how they think about gambling.
A recent study from the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital found that one in six parents of teens worry their child may be developing a gambling problem. At the same time, studies indicate that young people often recall multiple sports betting ads each week, yet many report little or no exposure to responsible gaming messages. This imbalance can contribute to the normalization of gambling behaviors among youth and underscores the importance of providing accurate information and prevention-focused messaging early.
Schools and community organizations play an important role in helping young people develop healthy habits and make informed decisions. Providing credible, educational messaging about responsible gaming can help ensure students and families have access to balanced information in an environment where gambling promotions are becoming increasingly visible.
The “Don’t Regret the Bet” Booster Club Partnership
To help address this imbalance, the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s (MGCB) “Don’t Regret the Bet” campaign is expanding to include high school athletic booster clubs across the state. The program offers school communities an opportunity to promote responsible gaming education while providing booster organizations with a way to support their programs.
By sharing responsible gaming messages through school athletics communications and events, booster clubs and school communities can help balance the influence of gambling marketing with credible, educational messaging that encourages informed decisions and healthy habits.
School-affiliated 501(c)(3) booster clubs are invited to participate in the “Don’t Regret the Bet” responsible gaming campaign beginning in 2026.
Participating booster organizations can receive up to $4,000 in funding by helping share responsible gaming messaging through school athletic communications and events. Campaign materials are designed to be simple, flexible, and easy for volunteer organizations to implement.
Examples of participation include:
- Digital or social media posts featuring “Don’t Regret the Bet” messaging
- Responsible gaming messaging in booster newsletters or event programs
- Scoreboard placements during sporting events
- Posters and graphics displayed at athletic venues
The goal is straightforward: increase awareness and education while supporting the athletic programs that strengthen school communities.
Booster clubs are deeply embedded in school culture. They help fund equipment, travel, uniforms, and opportunities that enhance student experiences in athletics and extracurricular activities. Because of that trusted role, they are also powerful messengers when it comes to promoting healthy decision-making and awareness among students and families.
How to Apply
If your district has 501(c)(3) athletic booster clubs, please consider sharing this opportunity with them. Participation can help support both student well-being and school athletic programs through free, evidence-based resources to support parents, coaches, and students.
Applications are now being accepted. Booster clubs interested in participating should send an email to research@KingMediaNow.com. Funding opportunities are available immediately upon acceptance, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.