We were planning a playful, creative workshop for 16 strangers hoping to refuel, reflect, and reconnect. Then war broke out. As we took in the news from Ukraine, feelings of helplessness and futility compounded with two pandemic years of isolation and hopelessness and we asked ourselves, “What’s the point of play in a moment like this?” We sat down and talked about canceling. But as we discussed it, we actually came to the opposite conclusion: that this was exactly the time for something like this.

Here’s why we came to that conclusion, and how we used imagination and play to fuel our way back to meaningful connection, community, and hope.

Made tons of new friends at work, lately? Not so much? You’re not alone in feeling alone. Two remote years of only seeing each other on purpose, for a purpose, has cost us those informal interactions–like waiting for an elevator or walking the halls together–that do a surprising amount to strengthen social bonds. An article in the NY Times last year found that even the most introverted among us are missing that sense of connection and belonging that community naturally cultivates. That sense of belonging nourishes unexpected benefits as well, like encouraging creative risks, enhancing adaptability in the face of change, and just making us happier.