If you look closely around a casino, there's signs everywhere with telephone numbers and leaflets about problem gambling. Its a law in Nevada to post helpline numbers. However, thats usually as far as it went.

Harrahs in Reno have taken their stance towards problem gambling one step further. Their 'ambassadors' program will actively seek out and help any of their customers they believe have a problem.

If a casino manager thinks a player may have a problem, the manager will take them aside and provide them with a helpline number. They will also be asked if they would like to enter a database that will stop any mailers being sent to his home to promote gambling.

This service relies on casino employees taking up the responsibility to report problem gamblers to their managers and takes the onus off of the player to take the first step - something that signs and leaflets rely on.

So far, about two to three such conversations have occurred at each Harrah's property per month. Gamblers don't appear to be resisting efforts to strike up a conversation, though in some cases, ambassadors find that the best time to approach them is not right away but after the person has had time to cool off from his last gambling session.

Some appreciate the information and concern but do not appear to need help, while others have been referred to treatment as a result of the program,

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