Con-tribution Meets Crittenton Centers

In this episode, Dan and Brad interview Stefanie Crawford from IDEA (Illinois Digital Educators Alliance). Their discussion covers all that IDEA offers educators and those who support them.

This week, Brad and Dan dive into all the exciting events from Con-tribution 2025! From epic events to unforgettable moments, we've got it all covered.Plus, Brad has a heartwarming chat with Brent Oest from Crittenton Centers, where we'll explore the incredible work they do for children and families in the Greater Peoria area. Tune in for an episode filled with fun, insights, and inspiration!

In this episode, Brad and Dan dive into everything you need to know about Con-tribution 2025, happening April 26th & 27th! From amazing sponsors and unique vendors to epic games and can't-miss special events—they're covering it all.But that’s not all! They also take you behind the scenes of Tabletop Gamers for Good, the nonprofit powering Con-tribution Con, FlatCon, and our year-round Pop-Up events. If you’ve ever wondered what we’re all about or how gaming can give back, this episode is for you.

SummaryIn this conversation, Brad Price speaks with Hannah Daly and Jillian Guede from Big Brothers Big Sisters about their roles, the importance of mentorship, and the various programs they offer to support youth in the community. They discuss the challenges of recruiting male mentors, the impact of group mentoring initiatives, and the significance of upcoming fundraising events like Bowl for Kids' Sake. The conversation highlights the personal experiences of the speakers and their passion for making a difference in the lives of children.Topics discussed in this episode:Heart of Illinois Big Brothers Big SistersBowl for Kids SakeCon-tribution 2025D20DinnerHeroes IncThe Pat Cave Podcast

In this episode, Jason and Brad share their excitement about Galesburg TCGCon and the Volunteer Network on Aging (VNA). They sit down for interviews with Mike Bennett from the VNA and Dakota Taylor, the driving force behind Galesburg TCGCon. Plus, they give listeners a sneak peek at some of the events and special activities planned for Con-tribution 2025 in April. To wrap up, they discuss PeoriaCon—where they'll be running the board game area—happening March 29-30 at the Peoria Civic Center.

In this episode Dan and Brad talk with Julie Bonar and Cara Domaszewicz from Neighborhood House Association Peoria. They discuss the programs that Neighborhood house provides and some of the events they run to support their efforts.For more information about the topics from this episode, check out: Neighborhood House Food Fight Surgeon General Report on Loneliness Heart of Illinois Big Brothers Big Sisters CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates)⁠ ⁠Foster Village - Peoria⁠ Alpha Park Library⁠ Soulside Healing Arts⁠ Galesburg TCGCon Con-tribution Pop-Up March PeoriaCon Con-tribution Con 2025 Reserve Artisan Ales The Vault The Shoppes at Grand Prairie Peoria Civic Center 3300 Event Center Country Club of Peoria Fusion 45 / 12 Bar Chef Jared Ford Suite Fire Bar + Grill Chef Seth Clink Bar Weavers Fresh Food and Drink

We talked to Julie for quite a while and had more material than we could fit into the podcast. In this clip, Julie talks about how the families she serves helped shape Peoria Grown and Market 309.

We talked to Julie for quite a while and had more material than we could fit into the podcast. In this clip, Julie explains how she got started and the project that came before Peoria Grown.

Summary: In this episode, Brad and Jason discuss the STEAM into Star Wars event at Washington Community High School and take a trip down memory lane. Then all three of the Tabletop Gamers for Good crew have a sit-down with Julie Eliathamby from Peoria Grown. Peoria Grown is a volunteer-led nonprofit committed to making fresh, healthy food accessible to everyone in our community. They are also the non-profit organization that we are raising funds for at our February Con-tribution Pop-Up convention on February 16th. This conversation explores the challenges and solutions surrounding food access and healthy eating in the Peoria community, particularly through the initiatives of Peoria Grown and Market 309. The discussion highlights the importance of community engagement, volunteerism, and innovative approaches to address food deserts and empower families to achieve self-reliance. The speakers share personal stories, insights into their nonprofit model, and future aspirations for creating a sustainable impact in the community. Peoria Grown is doing some great work in our community. Please take a moment to check out their organization. Takeaways: Healthy eating can be perceived as unaffordable by many families. Empowerment and self-reliance are key goals for families in need. Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of community initiatives. Innovative solutions emerged during COVID-19 to address food access. Market 309 was created to provide affordable fresh produce to the community. Sustainable nonprofit models require community involvement and support. Understanding food deserts is essential for addressing community needs. The goal is to create resources that empower families to thrive. Community connections are vital for spreading awareness and support. Future aspirations include expanding services and increasing accessibility.

Summary In this conversation, Brad Price, Dan Crawford and Jason McKee discusses the inception and growth of the Con-tribution initiative, which partners with nonprofit organizations to host tabletop gaming events. The focus is on the upcoming STEAM into Star Wars event, an interview with Tom Gross and Dan Reem, two teachers from Washington Community High School, highlighting its family-friendly nature and the variety of activities planned. The discussion also touches on the importance of community engagement, the role of gaming in education, the significance of volunteerism in supporting local nonprofits, and an emphasis on the need for inclusive gaming experiences that cater to all ages and interests, fostering a sense of community and fun. Mentioned in this episode: STEAM Into Star Wars Washington Community High School Library Instagram Coffee with Kenobi Podcast Rebel Base Card Podcast The Hyperion Hub Podcast Teachers in the Dungeon Podcast Jeremy Berkley Olivia J. Bennett 501st Legion - Vader's Fist IDEA / IDEACON The Mandalorian: Adventures Board Game Star Wars: Clone Wars Board Game Vagrant Song Board Game Rhino Hero Super Battle Board Game Ticket to Ride Board Game Horrified Board Game Pandemic Board Game Heart of Illinois Big Brothers Big Sisters Neighborhood House Peoria Advocates for Access Peoria Riverfront Market ⁠Waffle Pop⁠ Cabbages and Kings Games Zeek's FlatCon 2025 Con-tribution 2025 Takeaways The Con-tribution initiative supports local nonprofits through gaming events. STEAM into Star Wars combines education and entertainment for families. Community engagement is crucial for the success of gaming conventions. Games can serve as effective educational tools in schools. Volunteerism plays a significant role in supporting nonprofit organizations. Family-friendly events encourage participation from all age groups. The gaming community is growing and becoming more inclusive. Gamification can enhance learning experiences for students. Building a gaming community requires collaboration and creativity.