Fae of Cascadia – A Community Enhancing Adventure Quest

Introduction

Fae of Cascadia is a pioneering community enhancement venture disguised as a game, designed to foster deep and enduring connections among participants while improving the quality of life for all. By engaging individuals in meaningful real-world activities, Fae of Cascadia aims to address social determinants of health, promote community cohesion, and create tangible benefits for neighborhoods across Portland. Participants have the option to play for free or opt for premium levels, each offering unique benefits and opportunities for engagement.

Advancing Health Equity

Fae of Cascadia recognizes the crucial role of social connections in promoting health and well-being. By facilitating and incentivizing shared activities and collaborative projects, the program fosters strong community bonds and enhances social support networks. Through participatory design processes, community members have a direct say in shaping projects that address their specific needs and cultural preferences. By empowering individuals and communities, Fae of Cascadia contributes to long-term health equity by fostering resilience, social cohesion, and a sense of value and belonging.

Reflecting Community Voices

At the heart of Fae of Cascadia is a commitment to centering the voices and perspectives of the communities it serves. Cohorts are initiated and guided by participants, who collaborate with their neighbors to identify local priorities and co-create solutions. This bottom-up approach ensures that projects are responsive to the unique needs and aspirations of each community, fostering a sense of ownership and collective empowerment.

Future Impact

Over the next 3-5 years, Fae of Cascadia aims to make a visible impact on Portland’s public spaces, transforming them into vibrant hubs of community activity and connection. By fostering a culture of health and collaboration, the program seeks to mitigate the negative effects of social isolation and sedentary lifestyles, thereby improving the overall well-being of players. Through ongoing engagement and placemaking efforts, Fae of Cascadia aims to create a legacy of stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.

Audience 

Fae of Cascadia is created for individuals seeking to find ways to engage meaningfully with their community, as well as socially active individuals and families seeking opportunities to contribute to their communities. Additionally, the program aims to engage enthusiasts of interactive games, such as Dungeons and Dragons and Pokémon Go!, who are looking for fun and meaningful ways to connect with others. By harnessing the energy and creativity of these diverse groups, Fae of Cascadia seeks to foster a culture of productivity and collaboration that benefits all members of society.

Assumptions Underpinning the Mission of Fae of Cascadia

• Social isolation significantly decreases our personal health and well being, both mental and physical.
  • Creating meaningful connections and relationships addresses our current crisis of social isolation. 
• Poor social relationships contribute to lack of self esteem, poor self care, and inadequate social stability.
  • Engaging in cooperative group activities builds a sense of self worth and healthy, meaningful social relationships.
• Loneliness is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide.
  • Playing social games mitigates loneliness and helps us to connect with new people and build new friendships.   

Invitation

Fae of Cascadia is more than just a game; it’s a transformative community enhancement program with the power to foster lasting connections, improve public spaces, and promote health and well-being for all. Through collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to equity, Fae of Cascadia is poised to become a beacon of hope and resilience in communities across Portland and beyond.

Please join us to spread this project throughout Cascadia, starting right here in Portland! Be the whimsy you want to see in the world!