New Meta Entertainment, Inc. (NME), the parent company overseeing esports organization Dignitas and women’s gaming broadcast production platform Raidiant, has announced a strategic partnership with the Ruderman Family Foundation. The Foundation, renowned for its work in destigmatizing mental health, will serve as the Official Mental Health Partner of NME, offering support and a grant to enhance mental health initiatives within Dignitas.
This collaboration fosters an inclusive and supportive environment for gaming fans and esports professionals. Utilizing the influence of Dignitas talent, including Fortnite World Champion Kyle “Bugha” Giersdorf and Fortnite Streamer Shaun “AussieAntics” Cochrane, NME and the Ruderman Family Foundation plan to roll out a series of fan-focused digital activations. Additionally, the Foundation will collaborate with Raidiant executives on programming within the upcoming Raidiant Challengers Circuit tournament.
Michael Prindiville, CEO of NME, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating:
“The Ruderman Family Foundation’s ongoing dedication to providing essential mental health resources is truly impressive, and we look forward to mutually providing that impact to the gaming community.”
The partnership will be highlighted at TwitchCon Las Vegas on October 21st, featuring a panel discussion with NME and external talents such as Kyle “Bugha” Giersdorf, Emmalee “EMUHLEET” Garrido, and Joey “Keeoh” Winkler. The panel aims to contribute to the ongoing conversation within the gaming community by covering various aspects of mental health and gaming. An event space at TwitchCon will also be created for talent and fans to connect with mental health resources.
Jay Ruderman, President of the Ruderman Family Foundation, highlighted the partnership’s potential impact in addressing the mental health crisis, stating, “This new partnership is poised to make a tremendous impact by leveraging the immense popularity of gaming to meet people experiencing mental health challenges where they are.”
For the Ruderman Family Foundation, known for its work across education, sports, and entertainment, this marks an expansion into the game industry. The Foundation has previously collaborated with high-profile figures like Selena Gomez and Taraji Henson to normalize discussions around mental health.
