Second Turn began with a simple idea: no game should go to waste. What started as a small effort to restore and rehome board games, puzzles, and toys has grown into a community-driven movement that champions sustainable play, inclusion, and meaningful connection.
In a world where countless games are discarded due to missing pieces or minor wear, we saw an opportunity—to preserve, repair, and redistribute these items so they could continue bringing joy to people of all ages. A game is more than just its components; it's an experience, a memory, and a way to bring people together. Whether it's a board game that once created laughter around a family table or a puzzle that sparked quiet concentration on a rainy afternoon, each item has a story—and we believe that story shouldn't end too soon.
What began as a local initiative quickly gained momentum as more people recognized the value of sustainable play. Donations started pouring in—board games missing a few pieces, puzzles waiting to be completed, soft toys looking for new hands to hold them. The impact became clear: by rescuing and restoring these items, we could make a genuine difference for schools, families, and community groups—including both children and adults.
With each donation, we saw first-hand how a simple game could spark connection—how families rekindled traditions, how schools introduced interactive learning, and how community centres built friendships through play. We realized this was about more than just recycling games; it was about preserving moments and providing access to meaningful play for everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.
At Second Turn, our work goes beyond collecting donations. We follow a careful process to ensure every game and toy is safe, functional, and ready for a new home:
Collection – We receive board games, puzzles, soft toys, and accessories, welcoming donations even if they are incomplete or lightly worn.
Restoration – Our dedicated team carefully inspects, cleans, and repairs each item, replacing missing components whenever possible.
Redistribution – Restored games and toys are provided to schools, families, and community groups, ensuring they serve their intended purpose once again.
Over time, Second Turn has grown into a trusted resource for communities looking to embrace sustainability and accessibility in gaming. Through partnerships with schools, charities, and local initiatives, we've helped expand access to educational and recreational resources, making sure that play remains a tool for learning, connection, and joy.
We continue to evolve, exploring ways to expand our reach, improve our restoration methods, and provide even greater opportunities for play. Our mission isn't just about saving games—it's about preserving the experiences they create, the relationships they strengthen, and the memories they hold.
The Future of Second Turn
As we move forward, our commitment remains the same: ensuring that every game, puzzle, and toy gets a second chance. Whether through donations, community engagement, or financial contributions, every supporter plays a role in making sustainable play a reality.
Together, we can reduce waste, foster connection, and give every game the opportunity to be played once more.