Take This has officially announced the opening of applications for Season 2 of its innovative Accelerate Mentorship Program. This initiative aims to support emerging professionals at the intersection of the gaming and mental health sectors. The program seeks to enhance mental health research, promote inclusive game design, and foster community engagement within gaming environments. Applications for the program will be accepted until July 27, 2025, with interested individuals encouraged to apply at takethis.org/accelerate.
According to Dr. Sarah Hays, Accelerate Program Manager, “Accelerate is a mentorship program with the power to shape both the games industry and the communities it serves.” The initiative focuses on empowering individuals whose voices have historically been marginalized, ensuring a more representative future in both gaming creation and player experiences.
The success of the pilot program established a solid foundation for Season 2, during which previous participants reported significant career advancements. Many fellows secured new employment opportunities, initiated innovative projects, and cultivated lasting relationships with mentors and peers across both fields.
Support from Industry Leaders
The continuation of the Accelerate program is made possible through the generous support of Riot Games and Unlikely Collaborators. This partnership allows the program to remain accessible and impactful, providing resources free of charge to all participants. Dr. Kelli Dunlap, Executive Director at Take This, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, saying, “With their support, Accelerate has the potential to create meaningful shifts in how games are made, played, and supported.”
Jeffrey Burrell, Head of Social Impact at Riot Games, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “As longtime supporters of Take This, we’re thrilled to see them bring back the Accelerate program for Season 2 to continue to help aspiring gaming and mental health professionals.” He highlighted the unique role Take This plays in advancing mental health within the gaming community.
The program’s holistic approach not only provides mentorship but also encourages participants to reflect on their personal and professional values. As Elizabeth R. Koch, Founder and Chair of Unlikely Collaborators, noted, “Accelerate gives people space to pause, question the beliefs they’re carrying, and reconnect with what really matters not just in work, but in being human.”
About Take This, Riot Games, and Unlikely Collaborators
Take This is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health within the gaming industry. Since its inception in 2013, the organization has offered educational resources aimed at improving the mental well-being of gamers and industry professionals alike.
Founded in 2006, Riot Games is known for developing and publishing highly engaging games, including the globally recognized League of Legends. The company is committed to fostering a player-focused gaming community and has expanded its presence through various multimedia projects.
Unlikely Collaborators, led by Elizabeth R. Koch, is a nonprofit that champions storytelling and personal growth. Their initiatives, including the Perception Box™ framework, aim to address internal conflicts and promote deeper understanding within communities.
For those interested in applying to the Accelerate Mentorship Program, further details can be found at takethis.org/accelerate. The program promises to support the development of future leaders who will advocate for mental health and inclusivity in the gaming industry.
