DID YOU KNOW SPINNERS IS A 501(C)3 CHARITY?
SPINNERS’ HISTORY
our non-profit, pinball edu, was founded in 2014 by joe said. in 2017, spinners pinball: a pinball edu center was opened in frederick, maryland.
Since then, the inclusive arcade center has provided a safe, interactive and fun space for the general public, schools and educators, local organizations, caregivers and other service providers for children and adults with different abilities and needs within the community.
IN 2024, WE BEGAN THE PROCESS OF EXPANDING TO A BIGGER LOCATION AND BEGAN RENOVATING A 24,000 SQ.FT. SUITE AT THE FORMER FREDERICK TOWNE MALL, TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED TO OPEN IN DECEMBER 2024.
SPINNERS’ MISSION
Pinball EDU is a registered 501(c)(3) charity. Our mission is to build inclusive spaces that provide connection, skill development, and belonging through play.
WHY GAMING MATTERS
Pinball and other video games provide significant opportunities to target and improve critical development skills, including social and emotional skills, as well as communication, coordination, gross, fine and visual motor skills.
In a time when gadgets are replacing gatherings, we’re leveraging gaming to bring people together in real life. Face-to-face connection is crucial for building trust, fostering empathy, and enhancing communication, all of which strengthen relationships and promote well-being.
By constructing a welcome distraction from the traditional demands of therapeutic exercise, pinball helps engage a child in active play and has been shown to improve behavior, such as:
turn taking and sportsmanship
goal setting and strategy shifting (example: learning how to “play safe” versus taking a riskier shot)
increase in tolerance thresholds and improving coping strategies
building confidence and a community around a common interest
Being in an immersive gaming environment also offers caregivers the chance to observe and document experiences in a safe, public setting to help note, track and decrease maladaptive behavior.
OUR WORK
Spinners Pinball Arcade is a Certified Autism Center by the IBCCES and acknowledged as a natural part of Frederick’s inclusion community. A person with ASD or other challenges faces unique obstacles and barriers. Spinners offers a safe space for social opportunities and enrichment, where even those not participating enjoy the communal aspects of gaming. By uniting around a nostalgic, family-friendly activity of interest, we can successfully support caregivers and members of our community as they grow and develop.
Learn more about Spinners as a Certified Autism Center!
COMMUNITY NEED
The Autistic and Special Needs community is underserved, and in a world where medication is often given as an answer, gaming offers an alternative to traditional therapies and medical interventions. Our adaptive, inclusive environment allowed us in 2023 to serve over 30,000 visitors, including 2,500 families and more than 1,750 individuals with ASD and other challenges. We work with many local organizations, such as the Arc, the YMCA of Frederick County, Excel Youth, and more.
GET INVOLVED
WHAT YOUR DONATION PROVIDES
As a product of the tremendous support from our community, Spinners permits us to continue to demonstrate gaming’s effectiveness in developing crucial life skills.
As a direct result of donations from our supporters, we are able to supply a safe, judgement-free arcade, as well as pilot programs for local youth and adults.
Currently, your support fuels the construction of our state-of-the-art 24,000 square foot facility at District 40 on West Patrick St, adjacent to Warehouse Cinemas. This visionary space will set the stage for groundbreaking advancements in pinball education and community engagement.
Together, we can create a vibrant and inclusive space where fun, learning, and connection thrive. Join us in shaping the future of Pinball EDU with your generous donation today.
THE FUTURE OF PINBALL EDU
Exciting developments are underway at Pinball EDU as we pave the way to District 40. Here's a glimpse into what awaits at our new custom built, 24,000 square foot facility:
Sensory Retreat Room
Youth Learning Center
Kid’s Only Lounge
Multiuse Party Rooms
Tournament Arena
We aim to cultivate a vibrant community hub where fun and learning converge. From expanding our Youth Program offerings to forging deeper partnerships with local schools, the Frederick County Public Library system, and other local non-profits and businesses, Pinball EDU is committed to enriching lives in our community and fostering a passion for pinball that knows no bounds.
PLAY MORE PINBALL
It’s that simple! Every time you pay to enter Spinners and play, you’re directly contributing to our mission.
Your admission fee goes straight to our programming and continues to keep our space accessible to everyone in our community. Your admission also goes towards, and more:
Game upkeep, repair and parts
Staff salaries
Facility operations and needs
Free visits for caregivers of different needs individuals
DONATE A GAME
All of the games you play at Spinners are donated! They are provided by a local collectors that believe in our mission, as well as game donations from someone like you! Pinball EDU does not purchase games with donations.
If you or someone you know has an unused or broken game, we want to give it new life!
Your game donation will allow us to continue to provide a constant stream of new stimulation for our visitors that will encourage them to return time and time again.
