Pixels To Purpose Celebration Banquet September 20, 2025 @ Orchard Hills Church
Imagine a place where young gamers are welcomed with kindness, inspired to grow, and surrounded by values that uplift them. Thanks to you, the Slingshot Esports Gaming Center has become just that—a vibrant community for players seeking a positive, safe, faith-centered space.
In January 2023, with support from Calvary Temple Church, we took the first steps toward creating this haven for gamers in the greater Lehigh Valley. Since then, the center has blossomed into a place where friendships are formed, faith is strengthened, and young people experience God’s love in meaningful ways - plus they have a blast!
Growing Impact, One Pixel Story at a Time
I’d like to share a pixel story about the impact we are experiencing. A pixel story is a quick story that helps us see the big picture. Over the past 19 months, we’ve hosted more than fifty-five in person events at the Gaming Center alone and witnessed countless moments where your support changed lives. Here are just a couple pixel stories:
Being bullied at school, on his sports team, and even at youth events, a young man finds peace when attending our events. In an environment free from the toxic behavior of others, he can be himself, enjoy being with his peers, and hear how much he’s valued by his Creator.
Then, there’s a young lady who, initially shy, left an event not only more comfortable with us but also with a newfound sense of her worth, knowing she’s created in God’s image.
They’re not alone. Whether it’s church youth groups, families celebrating birthdays, or regulars like a mother and son who visit often, we see God’s hand in every interaction.
What’s Next: Bigger Vision for 2025
As we look to 2025, we’re excited to expand Slingshot Esports even further with two major goals:
After School Gaming Program: Launching in January, this program will provide a safe, biblically grounded after-school space for students ages 10-16.
Second RAID Event: Building on our successful, monthly community events, the additional open play event (known as a RAID) will further expand our safe haven gaming experience for youth and parents to gather, connect, and play.
Why We Need You Now
To make this vision a reality, we’re seeking to raise $8,000 by December 31, 2024. Thanks to the generosity of our Matching Gift Donors, all donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $4,000—doubling your impact when you give today!
With your gift, we can upgrade equipment, create more opportunities for players to join, and ensure that every visit to Slingshot is meaningful. Here’s how your gift can make a difference:
$470 updates ten PCs for smoother gameplay and adds more games.
$310 gives a Nintendo Switch so that four more players have a chance to play.
$229 replaces an outdated TV.
$79 provides a player with a comfortable seat.
$64 equips a player with a quality headset.
$28 places a controller in the hands of a player.
Your gift today isn’t just about funding equipment; it’s about opening doors for young people, showing them they belong, and helping them experience faith in ways they never expected.
Together, Let’s Keep Making a Difference
With every gift and prayer, you’re helping us grow a community where players, parents, and youth leaders can connect, build meaningful relationships, and play with purpose.
Imagine the joy on a young person’s face as they walk into a room with gaming systems, vibrant lighting, and say, “the feeling you get when you walk into this room, it’s like a whole different level - like official gamer mode is unlocked. I’m surprised it’s in a church.” Because of you and our host Calvary Temple, it is—a special space in a church that meets them where they are.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Please consider a donation today to help us reach our goal, so we can continue showing young people the relevance of faith in their lives.
To donate, please click/tap the blue button below.
P.S. Remember, your gift will be doubled if you donate before December 31. Thank you for helping us grow this community and continue making an eternal impact!