Building Youth through Gaming
At Isthmian Gaming Lounge, we believe gaming is more than just entertainment—it’s a gateway to learning, connection, and personal growth. That’s why we’re launching a youth esports gaming program to empower kids across Dane County with opportunities to learn teamwork, communication, and problem-solving through one of the most engaging mediums there is: gaming. This program will create a safe and fun environment where kids can meet and interact with other gamers in person, building friendships and skills in a controlled, inclusive space rather than solely online.
With your help, we can make this vision a reality. Your support will allow us to invest in specialized equipment to ensure accessibility for all kids to pursue their passion, create tailored curriculum for all ages, and hire passionate students to gain professional experience as mentors and leaders as they work to educate kids. Together, we can provide far-reaching opportunities, turning a fun pastime into quality education and personal fulfillment for every child in Dane County. Let’s level up youth opportunities and build a brighter, more connected future—one game at a time.
Raised: $575
of $5k Goal
Tori Qualls
$500 – 1d
Skylar Miles
$25 – 6d
Chad Schafer
$50 – 6d
Backers: 0
- Digital thank-you message from Isthmian Gaming’s Team
- Listed on our website’s donor appreciation page
- Exclusive access to behind-the-scene email updates on program development
Backers: 1
- All Previous Awards
- A personalized thank-you letter mailed to you from the Isthmian Gaming team
- One Hour of time on our Premium PCs and consoles
Backers: 1
- All previous rewards
- An all-day pass to use at the Lounge, including access to our Premium PCs and consoles (can be gifted)
- Receive one of our four styles of T-Shirts (limited availability)
Backers: 0
- All previous rewards
- Your name added to the “Founder’s Plaque” at Isthmian Gaming Lounge
- A VR Pass for you or a group to use our VR Room for one hour (can be gifted)
Backers: 0
- All previous rewards
- 25 hours of game time on our Premium PCs and Consoles (can be gifted)
- A session in our Content Creator Room (can be gifted)
Backers: 1
- All previous rewards
- A Plaque with your name on a PC (Limit 24)
- Free Month Diamond Pass (Unlimited Premium PC and Console time for one month)
About the campaign
Esports provides kids with more than just a fun and competitive gaming experience—it helps develop essential life skills that translate into future success. Through structured gameplay, young gamers build teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking abilities, much like traditional sports. They learn to collaborate with teammates, adapt to challenges, and develop problem-solving skills in real time. Esports also fosters discipline and perseverance, as players must practice, analyze mistakes, and refine their approach to improve. These experiences help kids gain confidence, resilience, and the ability to work under pressure—skills that are valuable in school, careers, and everyday life.
Beyond skill development, esports creates a sense of community and inclusion. Many kids struggle to find social connections in traditional settings, but gaming provides a space where they can meet peers who share their interests. By offering an organized and supportive environment, youth esports programs ensure that gaming remains a positive and enriching experience, rather than an isolating one. With the right mentorship and guidance, kids can explore career paths in the gaming industry, from game design to content creation, while having a safe, fun space to develop their passions.
Additional resources
Links for additional reading about the power of Youth Esports: