Accelerate Program Returns for a Second Season to Mentor Future Gaming and Mental Health Leaders

Take This Revives the Accelerate Mentorship Program



Take This, a notable nonprofit organization dedicated to mental health awareness in the gaming community, has announced the return of its Accelerate Mentorship Program for a second season. This innovative initiative is tailored for emerging professionals who operate at the confluence of the gaming and mental health sectors. With significant support from Riot Games and Unlikely Collaborators, the Accelerate Program aims to enrich the quality of mental health advocacy, enhance game design, and foster community engagement within gaming spaces.

What is the Accelerate Mentorship Program?



The Accelerate Mentorship Program is designed to empower individuals whose voices have historically been marginalized in the realms of gaming and mental health. The program offers participants one-on-one mentorship, professional development opportunities, and access to a supportive network that encourages the growth of aspiring leaders who are committed to promoting mental health and inclusion within the industry.

Open Applications for Season 2



Applications for Season 2 of the Accelerate Program are now officially open and will remain so until July 27. Interested candidates can apply through the official Take This website. This opportunity provides aspiring professionals with the chance to join a program that has already proven impactful. Last season, fellows achieved notable career advancements, launched new projects, and built meaningful relationships with peers and mentors.

Dr. Sarah Hays, the Program Manager for Accelerate, expressed excitement about the program's potential, stating, "Accelerate is a mentorship program with the power to shape both the games industry and the communities it serves. By investing in the next generation of mental health and gaming professionals, we're helping build a future where both game creators and players are better supported."

Continuing the Legacy



The upcoming season is set to build on the success of its pilot run, representative of significant strides taken by its participants. Many have transitioned into new job roles and fostered connections that will benefit them throughout their careers. The support from Riot Games and Unlikely Collaborators is crucial in maintaining momentum for this program and ensuring that it remains accessible for all involved.

Dr. Kelli Dunlap, Executive Director at Take This, remarked on the importance of the program's mission, saying, "I'm so pleased that Riot Games and Unlikely Collaborators share our vision for cultivating a community of professionals who understand both games and mental health. With their support, Accelerate has the potential to create meaningful shifts in how games are made, played, and supported."

A Focus on Human Connection



Elizabeth R. Koch, Founder and Chair of Unlikely Collaborators, highlighted the program's focus on introspective growth, stating, "There's so much pressure to have it all figured out. Accelerate gives people space to pause, question the beliefs they're carrying, and reconnect with what really matters not just in work, but in being human. Through mentorship, community, and real conversations, it helps untangle the internal narratives that often go unexamined."

This initiative marks a continuing commitment to the integration of mental health awareness within the gaming industry. As gaming continues to grow and evolve, programs like Accelerate are instrumental in ensuring that mental health remains a priority for creators and players alike.

About Take This and Its Mission



Take This has been a pioneer in advocating for mental health resources since 2013, providing vital education and support within the gaming community. Its mission promotes mental well-being among all who participate in the gaming industry. The organization firmly believes that mental health is as essential as physical health and strives to create an environment where discussions surrounding mental wellness can flourish.

By supporting innovative initiatives like the Accelerate Program, Take This is paving the way for future success in mental health advocacy within gaming, promoting an inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. For more details about applications and to learn more about the program, visit takethis.org/accelerate.

Topics People & Culture)

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