About
Why Leveled Up Learning
Play, in all forms, can provide important learning opportunities. Legos offer an outlet that encourages creativity, team sports can teach collaboration, and Role-Playing Games, like D&D, can cultivate empathy. The responsibility for the positive development of people shouldn’t always fall into the hands of schools. The challenges facing our education systems continue to grow as we navigate funding cuts, social isolation, mental health needs, and various other issues.
In partnership with schools, community organizations, and businesses, we develop systems of support to promote the well-being of students, teachers, professionals, and the communities where we live. Our programming is designed to augment existing learning with trailered resources and training. Additionally, by partnering with community organizations, we aim to build a network of allies that support out-of-school learning and skill development. Above all else, we want to unlock the fun and excitement that is inherent to learning and professional development.
Leveled Up Learning is dedicated to developing individuals and ideas through the power of play. We put people in charge of their own learning while encouraging them to pursue their curiosities – join us and level up your learning.
Gabe O’Brien, Youth Development Consultant
Leveled Up Learning “began” when I was five years old. My brothers introduced me to Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), and I created a Hafling Rogue named Shodow – mainly because I couldn’t spell Shadow. Despite my joy in learning, I struggled in school. I didn’t feel smart, it was hard for me to sit in a chair for minutes, let alone hours, and the curriculum didn’t always feel relevant. But when I opened the D&D core rule book, I wanted to learn how to read!
Fast forward many years later, I found myself at The Strong Museum in Rochester, New York. Painted on the wall outside of the Toy Hall of Fame in rainbow-colored font is the quote by Diane Ackerman, “Play is our brain’s favorite way of Learning.” And I love to learn.
I have been working in the field of positive youth development for almost 10 years. During this time I have organized community based programming as well as oversaw the development and implementation of statewide initiatives. Throughout my various projects I focus on developing belonging within community as a form of holistic prevention of public health issues. By centering individuals’ social emotional development we can create more meaningful and engaged community members.
