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Gamers in the Control Tower?✈️
Discover how the FAA is recruiting gamers for air traffic control roles, the science behind gaming skills in the workplace, and 2 career paths for IDD families + gamers.

UESL to Host Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting for Ninth Gaming + Technology Arena—First Ever in San Marcos
UESL partners with TERI Campus of Life to launch its first San Marcos gaming + technology arena, expanding inclusive esports programming for IDD families in North County San Diego. Join the Unified Esports League and TERI Campus of Life for the grand opening of a free, inclusive gaming + technology arena in San Marcos on July 10, 2025—demos, refreshments, and community connection await!

Unlocking New Possibilities: How VR Empowers Individuals with IDD
Immersive Virtual Reality (VR) is revolutionizing life skills + mental‐health support for individuals with IDD + special needs. Recent studies show 59.4% achieve 90% waste-sorting accuracy in just 10 VR sessions and significant anxiety + depression reductions (p < .01). Explore top games (Beat Saber, Job Simulator, Moss), practical setup tips, + actionable next steps to unlock confidence and independence.

Guide: June ‘26 IDD-Friendly Events+Activities
Discover 10 inclusive IDD + special needs friendly events in San Diego this June 2025. Get dates, locations, and registration links for fun activities.

Gaming + Autism: Study Shows Benefits of Play-Based Therapies
Harnessing the power of play and eye-tracking technology, this post explores how gaze-contingent video games blend autonomy, purpose, mastery, and social reinforcement to boost attention, perception, working memory, and social skills in individuals with autism.

UESL Receives Top Local Workplace Award for 2025 by Homebase
UESL is honored to be named a Top Local Workplace of 2025 by Homebase—thanks to our passionate coaching staff, dedicated client services team, and creative marketing crew. Their tireless work transforms lives and fuels our mission to build an inclusive, empowering esports community.

UESL Sponsors the Foundation of Developmental Disabilities Grantee Showcase
Fueled by a pivotal grant from the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities, UESL’s flagship Poway gaming + technology center at Abraxas High School empowers individuals with IDD through adaptive tech, expert coaching, and an inclusive community. At the 2025 FDD Grantee Showcase, we celebrated this partnership’s impact—and we’re just getting started.

Why Video Games in 2025 Are a world-changing movement!
In 2025, video games have transcended their role as mere entertainment to become a catalyst for innovation, inclusion, and personal growth. This evolution is evident in their dominance as the largest sector of entertainment, surpassing film and music combined. At UESL, we harness the power of gaming to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through expert coaching, community-building, and skill development. Every session at UESL isn’t just about playing games—it’s about mastering teamwork, problem-solving, and digital literacy, all while fostering a supportive environment where friendships flourish. Discover how UESL is paving the way for a future where gaming isn’t just a pastime, but a pathway to unlocking potential and building lifelong skills.

Community Spotlight: San Diego Regional Center

The Origin of UESL
From a chance coffee invite in Poway to a diner‑napkin blueprint, discover how UESL was born—uniting gaming passion + special‑needs expertise to build inclusive esports pathways. Read on to learn how our founders’ creative spark still drives every level we conquer

Partner Spotlight: Verimatrix
Verimatrix’s advanced cybersecurity solutions and generous support have equipped UESL’s gaming centers with secure, high‑performance hardware, team jerseys, and expansion funding—ensuring individuals with IDD can game, learn, and grow in safe, inclusive environments.

The Impact of Compassionate + Safe Spaces for Individuals with IDD
Compassionate coaching for individuals with IDD at UESL

Guide: May IDD-Friendly Activities

Community Spotlight: Easterseals

Community Spotlight: El Centro Elementary School District

The Zipper Brothers: A Story of Scars, Strength, + Unbreakable Bonds

UESL Challenges Myths Limiting IDD Individuals

Community Spotlight: TERI Campus of Life

Guide: April IDD-Friendly Activities
