November 22, 2024: Sharing Games With The Texas School For The Deaf

Steve Jackson Games goes to a lot of different events during the year, and we enjoy teaching and sharing our games by bringing demo copies to every event. The other day, a few of us went through the marketing office, pulling out old editions, demo copies, and discontinued games that can no longer go to events. As we did, we discussed how we could donate them to keep the sharing going.

After some research, we settled on The Texas School for the Deaf, an amazing school that helps students of all ages learn skills to help them navigate and find their place in a world not designed for them. I reached out to the school and got in contact with a woman named Anne. She was delighted to hear about the games and said, "Yes, please!"

The team and I went through every demo game to make sure all the pieces, cards, and boards were still in the boxes, and we packed them into my car. All in all, we ended up with enough games, dice sets, and pocket notebooks for the entire school to share! As Anne and I loaded the games onto her cart, we talked about all the different lines. As I explained which game would work best with each grade, we were both filled with joy at the thought of these gently used games finding new homes where they will be loved again for years to come.

If you find yourself falling out of love with your older games and are thinking of getting rid of them, consider donating them to a local school, after-school program, or public library. Boardgames bring out the best in people. Games can be an escape, a way to connect with others face to face, and even a way for those who may not be able to communicate readily to come together and have fun! And we certainly need more of that.

-- Revka Dow