May 28, 2026 – At Lake Center Middle School in California, what began as a series of inclusive games inspired by WPDI’s global campaigns for the International Day of Peace and World Day of Social Justice has grown into something much bigger. Today, the school’s Gaming Club has become a vibrant space where students come together each week to build friendships, practice collaboration, and create a stronger sense of belonging through play. Rooted in empathy, fairness, and positive peer connection, the initiative shows how even small moments of connection can help shape more inclusive school communities.
Through the Domestic Harmonizer Program, WPDI partners with schools to equip young people with the skills to build confidence, navigate differences, and foster inclusive environments. At Lake Center Middle School, this support helped launch the Gaming Club, which is rooted in structured, inclusive play and the passion of students. Every Thursday during lunch, students gather to play board games, electronic games, and video games that emphasize teamwork, fairness, turn-taking, and respectful interaction. The club has become a consistent hub for connection across campus, with approximately 100 to 185 students participating each week. The impact has been widely felt, with educators reporting increased engagement during lunch, stronger peer relationships, and a more inclusive school climate. For many students, the Gaming Club has become a reliable and welcoming space for belonging during the school day.
Brandon Keim, School Counselor at Lake Center Middle School, shares that “WPDI’s Domestic Harmonizer Program has played a key role in both launching and sustaining the gaming initiative at Lake Center. Their support allowed us to purchase inclusive, high-interest games and materials that make the gaming room accessible and engaging for a wide range of students.” He adds, “beyond resources, the program aligns closely with our focus on student well-being, social connection, and positive school climate. This support has helped us intentionally design the space as one that promotes fairness, belonging, and healthy peer interaction, while ensuring the initiative continues to grow and meet student needs.”
Assistant Principal Dr. Gould at Lake Center says, “Our Thursday lunchtime Gaming Club has become an amazing outlet for students. It gives them a consistent, safe space to relax, connect with peers, and build positive relationships around a shared interest. Having this once a week has made a real difference for students who benefit from a structured but fun break during the school day, and the excitement they bring each Thursday says it all.”
Eighth-grade student Daniel states, “The gaming club is a really great space. It has everything from board games to phone games and Nintendo Switch showdowns. It’s fun for everyone and gives students a chance to relax, connect, and take a break from the stress of the day.”
What began as a World Day of Social Justice and International Day of Peace activity has evolved into a lasting school-based model for connection and inclusion, demonstrating how play-based programming can strengthen relationships and build community over time.
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