Hasbro, the makers of popular toys and games, launched the inaugural Day of Play today, June 11th. Adopted by the United Nations and using the acronym IDOP, it is a humanitarian-focused effort to bring the power of play to everyone. It coordinates Hasbro employees with charitable organizations internationally to make an impact.
Hasbro is known for its products that are enjoyed around the world. These include Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, Monopoly, NERF, and more. Many people grew up with Hasbro products in their home that were brought out family game night. On this IDOP, they have impacted tens of thousands of people on a global scale through charitable and outreach efforts. Here are some of the initiatives:
- Over 3,000 games were packed and donated by Hasbro employees to high-need schools
- Wizards of the Coast employee volunteers created gaming kits for nonprofit Good360 that provides relief to communities in difficult times
- Nonprofit partner SeriousFun Children’s Network hosted a virtual camp session to promote the power of play for children with illnesses and their families
- UK employees worked with the charity SpecialEffect that helps people with physical disabilities through video games
- Poland employees donated toys to a local Family Assistance Shelter
- Cambridge University hosted a webinar on using play to help children heal and thrive around the world
“At Hasbro, we know firsthand that play has the power to transform a life . . . But play should not be a privilege. It’s a critical skills-builder, instilling confidence, resilience, and creativity. Play teaches key cognitive, developmental, and emotional skills. Play builds social connection . . . Play is a human right. Everyone deserves the time and access to play every day. ” – Statement from Hasbro
Play is what this website is all about. Enjoying video games, getting breaking news on indie creators, and rolling dice. So let’s celebrate together and play a game today!
