**Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario)**  
The **Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario)** (RGC), legally registered as **Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario)** (Business Registration Number: 106846462RR0001), is a nonprofit organization focused on preventing problem gambling and promoting safer gambling practices. Established in 1983 as the **Canadian Foundation on Compulsive Gambling** (CFCG), the organization rebranded to its current name in 2001, reflecting a broader focus on responsible gambling policies and harm reduction[2][5].  

### History  
Founded by **Tibor Barsony**, a former compulsive gambler who sought to address gaps in support services after his own recovery, CFCG initially operated from Barsony's basement with minimal funding[2]. Under Barsony's leadership, the organization advocated for public awareness and collaborated with government entities, including participating in Ontario’s Advisory Board on Problem and Compulsive Gambling[5]. Following Barsony’s death in 2018, RGC established an annual bursary to support innovative responsible gambling research[2].  

### Mission and Activities  
RGC emphasizes **prevention** and **mitigation** of gambling-related harm through research, education, and partnerships with regulators and operators[1][4]. Key initiatives include:  
- **ROGA National College Education Campaign**: A collaboration to educate students on responsible gaming and mental health[4].  
- **Big Game Strategy**: Research-driven campaigns targeting high-risk gambling behaviors during major sporting events[4].  
- **ESG Advocacy**: Partnering with Deloitte to promote environmental, social, and governance standards in the gambling industry[4].  

### Governance  
As a registered nonprofit, RGC operates under a governance structure aligned with Ontario’s Ministry of Health guidelines, focusing on program delivery and policy development[3]. The organization has expanded its influence globally while maintaining its Ontario-specific legal entity for provincial initiatives[3][5].  

### Leadership  
Former CEOs include **Jon Kelly** and **Shelley White**. **Sarah McCarthy** was appointed CEO in 2025, succeeding White[4].