Today, No Gamer Left Behind Foundation exists to remove barriers to play and create inclusive, structured gaming experiences that strengthen individuals, families, teams, and communities. This purpose grew from the passion and lived experiences of its founders.
Removing barriers so people of all abilities, backgrounds, and ages can participate fully.
Using tabletop experiences to build trust, communication, and meaningful social bonds.
Delivering professionally guided events that create safe, engaging, and purposeful play.
Strengthening individuals and communities by fostering belonging, confidence, and growth.
No Gamer Left Behind Foundation was created by lifelong gamers who discovered firsthand how powerful games can be in bringing people together. Founded by professionals, first responders, and veterans, NGLB began with a simple realization: modern board games and tabletop gaming are more than entertainment—they are tools for connection, healing, learning, and belonging. What started as shared games and adventures with painted miniatures evolved into a deeper mission to make play accessible to everyone, especially those who need it most.
Over time, the founders identified a recurring challenge. Too many people—youth, veterans, individuals with disabilities, seniors, and community members facing isolation—were being left out of meaningful social experiences. Traditional programs often lacked accessibility, flexibility, or genuine engagement. Gaming, when thoughtfully facilitated, proved to be a powerful solution. Around the table, differences fade, communication opens, and trust begins to form.
NGLB’s mission is to support connection through play by delivering professionally facilitated events that promote teamwork, emotional regulation, creativity, and social confidence. At its heart, No Gamer Left Behind is about ensuring everyone has a seat at the table—and a place where they belong.
Role: Founder and CEO
Profession: Lawyer and Author
Favourite Game: If I had to choose just one game to play over and over again, it would be Betrayal at House on the Hill. I’ve never seen another game draw so many people in and get them hooked on board gaming the way Betrayal does.
Favourite Miniature Model: Of all the models I’ve collected over the years, my favourite has to be Egrimm Van Horstmann on his two-headed dragon. What a beauty.
Started the Hobby in: It all started when I was young… and here we are some 25+ years later.
Best Gaming Memory: A lifetime friend of mine and I were playing Risk while studying overseas against some local English friends. As the game unfolded, we realized they had made a secret pact before we even began—to stick together no matter what.
As my armies were crushed by terrible luck, my friend and I exchanged a glance and, with a simple nod, knew what had to be done. I retreated to Australia while my friend distracted them by sacrificing North America. It took me three turns just to take Australia, but once I did, everything escalated quickly.
I rolled out of Siam and conquered Asia and most of Europe in a single turn—roll after roll of devastating success. I became unstoppable, conquered the world shortly after, and ended the reign of the British Empire in one fell swoop. It was glorious.
Why I Volunteer: As a lifelong gamer, I was fortunate to always have a close group of friends who shared my love of gaming. When I moved to the Arctic for work, I found myself isolated without a gaming community. When COVID hit, gaming became nearly impossible.
Eventually, I rediscovered my passion for painting miniatures, and after settling in Edmonton, I found an incredible new community of passionate gamers from all walks of life. As my involvement grew, I saw an opportunity to give back—using the common thread we all share: a love of gaming and its power to bring people together.
Role: Treasurer
Profession: Canadian Armed Forces Veteran — Retired Infanteer, CAF 1VP
Favourite Game: Warhammer: Horus Heresy
Favourite Miniature Model: Sons of Horus Decurion Lanius on a Kratos
Started the Hobby in: Model making in 2006, and Warhammer in 2016
Best Gaming Memory: With so many great moments over the years, it’s hard to choose just one. My favourite would be my first game of Mordheim, where my Dwarf leader made a diving charge and successfully withstood three enemies charging him at once.
Why I Volunteer: To give back to the community for all the times it has helped me, and to support people in similar situations—especially those facing forced retirement due to disability.
Role: Secretary
Profession: Firefighter and Veteran
Favourite Game: Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game
Favourite Miniature Model: My Caesarian-era Roman Centurion/Optio (Warlord Games), featuring a freehand shield I painted myself
Started the Hobby in: I started hobbying and gaming when I was around 10 or 12 years old (2002–2004 era) with old-school Warhammer Fantasy. My brother and I mostly built models and played with them without rules.
Best Gaming Memory: My craziest gaming moment happened during a game of Star Wars Legion (Galactic Republic vs. Galactic Empire). My oldest son, who was two at the time, came downstairs and asked to roll some dice before bed.
My opponent was shooting my Clone Commandos with Death Troopers—12 dice, needing 4+. My son rolled 12 out of 12 hits. Naturally, I asked him to roll my defense dice: 12 dice, needing 5+.
He rolled 12 out of 12 again. Greatest moment in tabletop gaming history for our family.
Why I Volunteer: I volunteer with No Gamer Left Behind because I believe it’s vital to support outreach programs where people facing internal struggles can find a safe space to connect through shared experiences.
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