Central Indiana Veterans can apply for a free membership to Butler University’s new Esports Park, thanks to a partnership between the University and the Indianapolis VA Medical Center.

Veterans receiving care through the Indianapolis VA Medical Center have access to annual memberships via participation in Recreational Therapy Outpatient services. Annual memberships at Butler Esports Park, valued at $250, include unlimited access to PC and console gaming stations during normal hours of operation (Monday–Thursday, 1:00–10:00 PM; Friday & Saturday, 1:00–11:00 PM). Veterans who receive care at VA may request a consult to Recreational Therapy from any provider or contact the Physical Medicine and Rehab Services at 317-988-2655 to enroll in the program.

“Butler University takes great pride in the services we provide to our nation’s Veterans,” Eric Kammeyer, Director of Esports and Gaming Technology at Butler University, said. “In fact, Butler has been ranked No. 1 Best College for Veterans among Midwest Regional Universities by US News & World Report for several years. We look forward to hosting Veterans in our new Esports Park, giving them a space to unwind as they reacclimate themselves into society.”

“We are so thrilled to be able to work with Butler University on such a new and inventive program,” Evan Davis, VA Recreation Therapist, said. “The support that it provides our Veterans as they work through the healing process is invaluable. We would like to thank Butler University for offering this to our nation’s Veterans in their time of need.”

Butler’s Esports Park features approximately 40 gaming PCs, an area of gaming consoles, and virtual reality. There is also capacity for technology-infused corporate training events, as well as youth STEM and esports camps. The Esports Park opened to Butler students at the beginning of the fall semester in August and opened to the community last month.

“I’m eager to introduce Veterans to the Butler University campus and the educational opportunities we can provide for them and their families,” Kammeyer said. “For those who have an interest in gaming, we have curriculum that could lead to careers in the gaming and the sports technology industry. If this partnership opens the door for even one Veteran, or their family member, to continue their education and pursue their dreams, it will all be worth it.”