IndependenceFirst will host an open house to debut its innovative new adaptive e-sports program, IndependenceFirst Place, on Saturday, April 6. The event will bring together people with and without disabilities to try out the latest in adaptive video gaming equipment. The open house will be held from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the agency’s main office located at 540 S. 1st St. The event is free and open to the public.

Adaptive video gaming equipment is making gaming more accessible than ever before, facilitating participation in the gaming community for people with disabilities.

Seria playing using adaptive controller (Photo courtesy of IndependenceFirst)

“Too often, people with disabilities are excluded from peer activities,” stated Chris Hege, IndependenceFirst Youth Leadership Coordinator and e-sports program developer. “This can be highly detrimental to self-confidence and personal growth. IndependenceFirst Place will use the power of e-sports and adaptive controllers to help bring people together to foster inclusion and facilitate empowerment.”

Video games and e-sports specifically have been shown to promote socialization and increase self-esteem; help build teamwork and improve cooperation skills; enhance creativity, decision-making and problem-solving abilities; and improve self-advocacy, perseverance and resilience.

To RSVP for the event, or to request accommodations, contact Chris Hege at 414-226-8367 V/Relay or chege@independencefirst.org.

About IndependenceFirst: Metro Milwaukee’s FIRST nonprofit resource when people have questions regarding access and disability. We offer more than 20 programs and services for people with disabilities of all kinds, in all age groups. Over 50 percent of internal staff, management and board members are individuals with disabilities. www.independencefirst.org