What if Nonprofits were Video Game Characters?

Today’s Fun Friday is all about gaming! Since it’s National Video Game Day, we thought it would be fun to compare some incredible nonprofits to some of the world’s most popular video game characters. Each nonprofit has its own mission, culture, and way of leveling up the community—and just like video game heroes, they inspire, protect, and push forward in creative ways. Let’s hit “start” and see who matches up with who!

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Endangered Wolf Center

🐺 Link (The Legend of Zelda)

Link is courageous, resilient, and deeply connected to nature—always stepping in to protect what matters most. The Endangered Wolf Center carries that same energy, dedicating itself to preserving wolves and other endangered species. Like Link on his many quests, this nonprofit safeguards the balance of ecosystems while inspiring others to join the adventure of conservation.

Endangered Wolf Center | Conservation & Education St. Louis

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Deaf Empowerment Awareness Foundation Inc

🚀 Samus Aran (Metroid)

Samus is strong, independent, and fearless—even when facing overwhelming odds. DEAF Inc mirrors this determination by empowering the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, breaking barriers, and creating awareness. Just as Samus thrives with both skill and courage, DEAF Inc helps people navigate challenges with strength and pride in their identity.

DEAF, Inc. | sign langauge | 25 East Frisco Avenue, Webster Groves, MO, USA

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Catholic Urban Programs

🍄 Mario (Super Mario Bros.)

Mario is reliable, approachable, and always willing to jump into action—whether it’s saving the day or lending a hand. Catholic Urban Programs does the same for communities in need, offering housing, food, and outreach. Like Mario collecting coins and power-ups, they gather resources and channel them into leveling up the lives of those they serve.

Catholic Urban Programs | Advancing the dignity of the human person through compassionate response to human needs.

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A Red Circle

🥋 Ryu (Street Fighter)

Ryu is focused, disciplined, and constantly striving for justice and improvement. A Red Circle embodies this same fighting spirit—working to advance racial equity and build strong communities. Much like Ryu’s dedication to training and bettering himself, this nonprofit never wavers in its pursuit of fairness, empowerment, and opportunity.

Home - A Red Circle

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Forward Through Ferguson

🌌 Master Chief (Halo)

Master Chief is a leader who unites diverse allies to face massive challenges. Forward Through Ferguson operates with that same sense of mission—bringing together communities to tackle systemic inequities and push forward lasting change. Just as Master Chief inspires entire teams to fight for a bigger cause, this nonprofit sparks collaboration and courage across St. Louis.

Forward Through Ferguson - Forward Through Ferguson

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St. Louis Area Diaper Bank

⭐ Kirby (Kirby’s Dream Land)

Kirby is lovable, approachable, and always there when needed. The Diaper Bank reflects that same kindness by helping families with the essentials—removing stress and replacing it with care. Like Kirby, who can adapt to any situation with a cheerful outlook, the Diaper Bank meets challenges with positivity and heart.

St. Louis Area Diaper Bank | Diapers and Period Supplies

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Immaculate Conception School

👑 Princess Peach (Super Mario Bros.)

Princess Peach is graceful, caring, and wise—a leader who nurtures and protects. Immaculate Conception School takes on that same role, fostering a supportive environment where students can grow. Just like Peach, who combines kindness with quiet strength, this school empowers young learners to blossom into tomorrow’s leaders.

Immaculate Conception of Dardenne Catholic School

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Forest ReLeaf of Missouri

🌳 Donkey Kong

Donkey Kong is larger than life and deeply tied to nature, strength, and resilience. Forest ReLeaf channels that same energy by planting trees and protecting green spaces across Missouri. Just as DK guards his jungle, this nonprofit ensures communities thrive with fresh air, shade, and healthier environments for generations to come.

Forest ReLeaf

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Belleville Area Humane Society

🐶 Isabelle (Animal Crossing)

Isabelle is caring, organized, and endlessly supportive—always making sure her community feels like home. The Belleville Area Humane Society carries that same spirit by caring for pets and connecting them with loving families. Just as Isabelle brings joy and calm to her village, this nonprofit makes the world brighter for animals and people alike.

Home - Belleville Area Humane Society

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MICA Project

🌍 Sonic the Hedgehog

Sonic is fast, determined, and never backs down when fighting for what’s right. The MICA Project (Migrant & Immigrant Community Action Project) embodies this same momentum by advocating for immigrant and refugee rights, working quickly and tirelessly to remove barriers. Like Sonic racing through levels to help his friends, this nonprofit brings speed, passion, and hope to every challenge.

MICA Project - Home

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PROMO Fund

⚡ Pikachu (Pokémon)

Pikachu is bold, bright, and full of energy—an instantly recognizable character that spreads positivity wherever it goes. PROMO Fund reflects that same spark by championing LGBTQ+ rights in Missouri. Like Pikachu lighting up every battle with electric energy, PROMO Fund shines a light on equality, advocacy, and pride.

https://promomissouri.org/

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Game Over (But Not Really… Just Video Game Day)

Just like our favorite video game characters, these nonprofits show us what it means to be brave, creative, and determined to make the world better. Their missions are quests worth celebrating—and their impact is like that final boss victory: rewarding, hopeful, and game-changing.

So today, on National Video Game Day, let’s remember: whether you’re rescuing wolves, planting trees, or fighting for equity, we’re all players on the same team—working to make life’s game more fair, inclusive, and full of heart.