One of the core principles of social investment is a belief that gambling contributes to a variety of economic and social problems that negatively affect millions of people each year.

Five million people are classified as pathological gamblers. With the popularity of online gambling, problems are affecting a population that is increasingly younger. Many of those affected are between the ages of 12 and 17. With poker tournaments proliferating, it’s no wonder that our kids are more proficient at Texas Hold’em than at locating the state of Texas on a map. Gambling costs the U.S. billions each year and the expenses include divorces, court and jail costs, rehab, medical costs, lost wages, bankruptcies and much more.

Our lottery systems prey on our poorest citizens who see no other way out. The odds are so monumentally stacked against them They are more likely to be struck by lightning twice in the same day, than to pick a winning lottery combination. The advertising machine behind the lottery system is as egregious  an example of social an economic injustice as exists. Why not advertise the odds, a warning label to those contributing to their continued economic difficulties?

Some gray areas exist. Many socially conscious funds allow investment in gaming establishments operated by Native Americans. The revenue generated is directed to schools, health services and various important community programs.

Socially responsible investments stay clear of companies that manufacture gambling equipment, own or operate casinos, have direct gambling involvement or receive revenues from gambling.