Welcome to the World of Crusaders for Change!

Crusaders for Change is more than just a game -- It's a journey into a magical realm designed to educate and promote empathy by celebrating abilities. Our mission is to tackle disability stigma by highlighting the unique skills of all individuals which fosters a more inclusive and understanding society.

Crusaders for Change is an innovative board game designed to expand existing knowledge and share valuable experiences about disabilities. By engaging with the game, players have the opportunity to learn something new and deepen their understanding of an important topic. Through interactive gameplay, our encourages empathy, inclusivity, and a greater appreciation for the diverse experiences of individuals with disabilities. This game serves as a powerful educational tool for those eager to broaden their perspectives and foster a more inclusive community.

While laws such as the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), and No Child Left Behind are important legal steps towards inclusion and equality, they often fall short in changing the underlying beliefs and attitudes of people. Crusaders for Change aims to bridge this gap by transforming negative perceptions into positive ones, fostering empathy and understanding through interactive and engaging gameplay.

Game Overview

Objective: Be the First player to reach the Crown of Inclusivity and Justice and win the final battle to become the Champion of Change.

Setting: A fantastical world where every character has special abilities, focusing on what they can do rather than what they can't.

Target Audience: Designed for children aged 10 and above, suitable for schools, family game nights, and social gatherings.

GAMES FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL CHANGE

Crusaders for Change aims to combat prejudice and stereotypes surrounding disabilities. As players progress in the game, they are exposed to characters whose disabilities are reframed in such a way that these are their strengths and abilities. They are also invited to engage in discussions and answer trivia questions surrounding disabilities including current laws as well as how to make our society more equitable. This invites players to engage in perspective-taking and address any unconscious bias or prejudice they may have.

People with disabilities often experience prejudice, discrimination, and exclusion. negative perceptions and thoughts about disabilities are common in society. However, through engaging gameplay, Crusaders for Change fosters a shift in perspective among players. By the end of the game, players gain a better understanding of disabilities, learn to advocate for inclusivity, and are inspired to include others in their communities. This transformation helps in promoting a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone's strengths and abilities are recognized and valued.

Trivia Cards

Crusaders for Change incorporates trivia questions to engage players in learning and reflection. These questions are designed to test players' knowledge about disabilities and abilities fostering a deeper understanding.

Warrior Cards

Warrior cards are the heart of the game, representing diverse individuals with unique abilities. These cards highlight how people with disabilities can turn challenges into strengths, emphasizing their skills and contributions to society

Discussion Cards

Crusaders for change provides structured discussion spaces where players can share their experiences and reflect on how to support individuals with disabilities. These spaces encourage open dialogue and the exchange of ideas, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

KINGDOMS

Community

Known for its strong sense of unity and support among its people. They value collaboration and mutual aid above all.

Knowledge

Renowned for its scholars and libraries. The inhabitants believe that education and understanding are the keys to progress.

Empathy

A place where compassion and kindness are the core values. The people are known for their emotional intelligence and support for one another.

Environment

This kingdom treasures nature and sustainability. Its citizens live in harmony with the environment and strive to protect it.

Justice

A land where fairness and equity reign supreme. The justice system is robust, and everyone is treated equally.

Compassion

Famed for its charitable deeds and care for the vulnerable. The people here are dedicated to helping those in need.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

DARIA TSYBINA

Daria is a junior at Pacific University majoring in psychology. Throughout this project she discovered that games can be a powerful tool for social change. She plans to improve the game materials and conduct an assessment to evaluate the game's effectiveness.

KAYA COWLES

Kaya is a senior at Pacific University, graduating in December 2024 with a bachelor's in psychology. She will pursue a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at Keck Graduate Institute in 2025 to further her passion for helping others.

JORDHAN SPENCER

Jordhan is a senior at Pacific University graduating in 2024 with a bachelor's in Psychology. She hopes to pursue a Masters in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health at Portland State in 2025.