Nothing warms the heart quite like seeing a group of people come together over a board game for the first time—laughing, strategizing, and forming connections that can last a lifetime. For one Manchester local librarian, Jenn, this joy wasn’t something to keep to herself. Instead, she’s turned her passion for gaming into an extraordinary mission to bring her community closer together.
Jenn has taken the idea of board gaming to a whole new level, organizing a project that truly embodies the spirit of giving. Her innovative and heartfelt initiative is simple yet powerful:
The Gift of Board Gaming!
Jenn’s story began to spread after she shared her efforts on a board game-themed Facebook page, where it quickly gained admiration and praise from enthusiasts around the world. Her goal was to not only bring joy to her local community but also to inspire others to do the same in theirs.
Here’s how it works: Jenn collects board games, lovingly wraps each one, and labels them with important details like a brief description, recommended age range, and the number of players it accommodates. This thoughtful touch ensures that every game finds the right home. The wrapped games are then distributed to individuals, families, and groups who might otherwise never have experienced the joy of board gaming.
Why Board Games?
Board games are more than just a source of entertainment—they bring people together. In a world that’s often dominated by screens and digital distractions, these games offer a unique way to connect face-to-face. They encourage teamwork, strategic thinking, and creativity while fostering a sense of community and belonging.
For Jenn, this initiative isn’t just about the games; it’s about what they represent. “Board games have the power to break barriers,” Jenn shared in her Facebook post. “They get people talking, laughing, and thinking in ways that no other activity can. I wanted to share that magic with my community.”
A Project Rooted in Community Spirit
Jenn’s work is part of a larger movement to use board games as tools for social engagement and connection. Her library serves as a hub where people can borrow games, learn how to play them, and even meet others who share their interests. By gifting these games to the community, Jenn is ensuring that the joy and benefits of board gaming reach as many people as possible.
Each game is chosen with care, keeping in mind the diverse needs of her community. From family-friendly classics like Ticket to Ride and Catan to party games like Codenames and more strategic titles for experienced gamers, there’s something for everyone.
How You Can Help
Jenn’s project has inspired countless others to consider how they can use board games to strengthen their own communities. If you’re feeling inspired, here’s how you can get involved:
- Start Your Own Initiative: Organize a similar project in your area by collecting, wrapping, and distributing board games to local families, schools, or community centers.
- Donate Games: Reach out to libraries or community groups near you to see if they accept board games as donations.
- Support Jenn’s Library: If you’d like to directly support Jenn and her incredible work, you can visit the Friends of the Library page and make a contribution. Every little bit helps keep projects like this alive and thriving.
The Power of a Simple Idea
Jenn’s project is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect. By sharing her passion for gaming, she’s not only creating moments of joy but also building a stronger, more connected community.
So why not take a page from Jenn’s book? Whether it’s through board games, books, or another passion, there are endless ways to make a difference in your community. The only limit is your imagination—and a little bit of heart.
Who knows? The next time you roll the dice or shuffle a deck of cards, you could be helping create memories that last a lifetime.