About Board Games for the Better

Our Mission

Board Games for the Better is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Queens, NY that gifts board games and board game experiences to underserved communities to improve mental health, relieve stress, and provide opportunities for social engagement.

Origin Story

This project was born out of a desire to share the love and joy of tabletop gaming with underserved and underpriviledged communities. Our original intention was to host miniature-painting and RPG sessions with children in hospitals and after-school programs, but due to COVID-19, we were forced to adjust our plans and develop a new way to reach out to these communities. We founded Board Games for the Better in February 2022 with the aim of providing free board games, card games, and puzzles to people going through difficult situations. In doing so, our goal was to improve mental health, relieve stress, and create opportunities for social engagement, particularly in underserved communities.

Communities we serve

Some communities that have benefited from our Gifting and Giving Event Programs include children and families in the foster care system, survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, survivors of human trafficking, children in long-term psychiatric care, and families experiencing housing insecurity.

With a growing library of games, we are currently developing a Game Day Program so that we can bring the joy of board gaming to elder-care facilities, after-school programs, and more.

Click below to find ways to help us continue our work!

Meet the Team

  • CEO, Founder

    Chris has over 8 years of experience in the non-profit world, having developed social programs and managed teams in different organizations across New York City and Long Island.

    Chris is also a board game enthusiast who joined the hobby back in 2004. His favorite games to play include Race for the Galaxy and Spirit Island.

    Chris’s work at Board Games for the Better combines his passion for social change and his love of board games!

    You can reach him at:
    crodriguez@boardgamesforthebetter.org
    (516) 967-2980