This week is National Volunteer Week, an opportunity for us to shine a light on the people and causes that inspire us. I would like to personally recognize and thank the countless volunteers and contributors that allow the IGDA to support and empower game developers around the world in achieving fulfilling and sustainable careers. 

These are rough times for everyone, but these hardships also highlight the strengths of our communities and hearts of those within it. 

I want to thank our Chapter and SIG leaders for guiding their communities and lending their time to furthering the skills, careers, and well-being of their peers. 

I want to thank our Board of Directors for contributing their time and expertise to guiding this organization to best help all developers. 

I want to thank those who volunteer to support our events, from our GDC volunteers to those who help Chapters and SIGs and at every other level. 

I want to thank those who actively participate in our communities and quickly lend their advice and support to those in need in person and in our online communities and Discord. 

And, finally, I would like to thank each and every one of you for all of the ways you contribute to making the game industry the best professional community that I have ever had the pleasure of being part of. It is the kindness, acceptance, and selflessness of each of you that creates such a wonderfully supportive, creative, and inspiring environment. 

Let us share our thanks, praise, and support this week for the people, causes, and organizations that empower us to pursue our dreams, help others, and find peace in our own hearts and minds.

If you would like to contribute to our own efforts and all that we do for game developers, please consider donating or joining our membership or reaching out to help a Chapter or SIG. And, as always, please let me know if there are any other ways we can help you through these times. We here at the IGDA are always looking for ways that we can better support game developers. Even if you cannot support us, I promise that we are here for you.

Thank You,

Renee