About CalPG: The California Council on Problem Gambling

The California Council on Problem Gambling (CalPG) is a non-profit organization, founded in 1986, dedicated to assisting problem gamblers and their families by promoting awareness, education, research, prevention and treatment for problem gambling. CalPG is an affiliate of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG).

The Council exists to help those affected by problem gambling and is neither for nor against legalized gambling.

CalPG is funded by voluntary contributions from businesses and other interested parties, like you. We do not receive any state or federal funding.

About Us

Leadership

Our leadership team works diligently to fulfill our mission of raising awareness through education and outreach. We have each been working for the CalPG for more than 10 years, and (somewhat unique in our field) have nearly 20 years of combined experience in the gaming industry prior to joining the Council.

Robert Jacobson
Executive Director

Robert Jacobson has been the Executive Director of the California Council on Problem Gambling since 2011, and his unique perspective on responsible gaming is derived from both his personal and professional experiences.

Robert worked in the gaming industry from 1998 to 2010, for both Las Vegas and California casinos. His casino experience includes gaming operations, marketing, project management and human resources.

Robert also sits on the advisory board for the California Department of Public Health’s Office of Problem Gambling, has served as the President and Treasurer of the Board for the National Council on Problem Gambling, and has served on the Gambling Policy Action Committee, a committee to advise the California Gambling Control Commission.

Tonya Williams, MBA
Deputy Director

Tonya Williams has worked for the Council since 2008, beginning as a Program Manager and working her way up to Deputy Director. Prior to joining the Council, she worked in the gaming industry with experience including human resources, marketing and communication, and training.

Our Board

The California Council on Problem Gambling is governed by members who serve as volunteers on the Board of Directors. These individuals represent a variety of backgrounds, experience and professions, and share a mutual interest in addressing the issue of problem gambling.

Executive Committee
  • Ben Shiller (President)
  • Darin Scharer (Vice President)
  • Cathy Shink (Treasurer)
  • Donna Brown Agins (Secretary)
Directors of the Board
  • Dr. Eric Geffner
  • Suzanne Koch Eckenrode
  • Andrew Masiel
  • Paula Negrete
  • Kyle Kirkland
  • Lauren Cole
  • Michael Ibach
Advisory Board
  • Richard Rosenthal
  • Bob Weinstein
Bennett Shiller
President
Darin Scharer
Vice President
Cathy Shink
Treasurer
Donna Brown Agins
Secretary

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As a non-profit organization funded by voluntary contributions, we sincerely thank you for your support!

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