Role-Playing Games: How Fantasy Can Build Reality for Neurodivergent Communities

Date and Time: Tuesday, March 17, 2026 | 2:00 PM—3:00 PM Eastern Time | 1:00 PM—2:00 PM Central Time

Host: University of Kentucky Human Development Institute (HDI)

What: MERGE Webinar Series

Register for the Zoom webinar

Webinar Description: In role-playing games (RPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons, players go on fantastical adventures. These games have long included neurodivergent players, who have helped shape the community. RPG quests can help players build confidence and develop problem-solving skills, while supporting identity development.

How can neurodivergent people — especially those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities — benefit from RPGs? How has their presence shaped RPG culture?

In this webinar, RPG developers, game masters, and players with lived and professional experience share the benefits of RPGs for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Join MERGE to explore how RPGs can shape culture while building connections and more fulfilling lives.

Panelists Include:

• James Mendez Hodes is a 9x ENnie Award-winning cultural consultant, game designer, and writer. You might know his consulting work from D&D, Magic, or Jackbox; his designs from Legends or Streets of Jade; or his writing from some articles about ores and racism.
• Kim Brown is a concurrent disorders therapist working with vulnerable youth in Canada. She earned her bachelor’s [degree] in psychology from the University of the Fraser Valley, and a master’s [degree] in clinical counselling from City University. She is also an avid tabletop role-player and professional dungeon master.
• Jaz Williams is a disability rights advocate, organizer, and public speaker passionate about amplifying marginalized voices. With a background in activism, Jaz focuses on mutual aid, education, and collective liberation as the Trans Health Coordinator for the Kentucky Health Justice Network.
• Glen Jennings is a member of the Communications Team at the Human Development Institute, a disability advocate and a self-described TTRPG (Tabletop Role Playing Game) nerd. He has run and played RPGs with neurodivergent people and enjoys creating stories with friends around the table.

For help or to request a copy of the webinar flyer, contact Elizabeth Kries at Elizabeth.Kries@uky.edu.