Utilizing a combination of supportive modalities from art therapy and other service disciplines, as well as some of the role-playing game mechanics of Dungeons and Dragons (D&D), we set out to ask the question “Could Tabletop Roleplaying Games become a tool in the support of those with disabilities accessing training and services?” Engaging staff at Ontario Technical University (OTU) in a pilot project – an adventuring group of support staff was formed by creating characters and playing D&D. This group was particularly focused on the game’s potential to develop new skills and create supportive networks amongst participants. OTU staff from multiple units were led through nine, weekly, two-hour workshops and game sessions – in order to create characters and explore the imaginary game world with the specific aim of seeing if there might be any related benefits to the experience that could be adapted for use in their own work.

This discussion panel will share some of the stories and outcomes discovered along the journey as we adventure together into the wild frontier of our imaginations. No matter whether you are facing a fictional Owlbear, a real life employment prospect or an unresponsive accessibility system – the opportunity to take on a worthy cause (alongside other supportive members of your community) is a valuable skill to develop. D&D in a group setting can be utilized in everyday life to achieve goals that might otherwise be beyond reach to disabled participants.