If you know exactly what those acronyms stand for, then keep reading!
The Open Door began a Gaming Group in 2024 that has become very popular with kids and teens in our surrounding neighborhoods. We began the Fall 2025 sessions with 5 different campaigns of various type, mechanics, stories, and levels. All of them are now completely full, but we have more players interested in learning!
Currently, we are hoping to get 1 or 2 specific afternoons or evenings for SUMMER 2026.
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN A GM?
- Over the age of 16 with some experience playing a TTRPG, and a desire to try leading one.
- Able to secure all necessary state & federal background clearances required for working with minors (we help you with this process and assist with any costs)
- Willing to work with a diverse group of kids and/or teens who come from a wide range of experiences, economic levels, family types, support systems, etc.
- Able to commit to regular attendance for either weekly or bi-weekly sessions
- Willing to put a reasonable amount of time into planning sessions
- Is understanding and supportive of the many internal and external struggles faced by children & teens today, without assuming the role of advisor, mentor, or counselor. (i.e., you can listen, display empathy, encourage them to seek support ... but avoid direct advice, especially regarding political stances, religious beliefs, and gender & sexual identities. We consider ourselves to be welcoming of ALL, and want our players AND volunteers to feel comfortable with each other at all times as much as is possible.)
WHO ARE THE PLAYERS?
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USUALLY: Must be at least 5th grade, which is usually age 10. However, we have made exceptions for some particularly clever & creative 4th grade students who have proven themselves worthy of being great PC's!
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FOR SUMMER: we are looking to have specific opportunities for ages 17-25 to join a party. We've had a lot of inquiries for this age group and would love to meet that need!
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Most of our players are in 7th-11th grade. We also have a few young adults who are playing instead of acting as GMs, which has worked out nicely as well. Also, our groups are a good mix of young men and women!
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Players are mostly from Crafton Heights, which is our central location. Several come from surrounding neighborhoods within about 15 minutes, and a few players travel 25-30 minutes to play their campaigns!
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Everyone has a variety of experiences. Some are brand new to the concept, some have played D&D for years, others only know what they've seen on Dimension 20 or by playing Baldur's Gate. We have some intro sessions to help players figure out what kind of game is best for them, and that helps immensely!
Feel free to message with any further questions or clarification!