AbleGamers, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing accessibility in gaming, was founded in 2004 by Mark Barlet. Over the past two decades, it has been a pivotal force in promoting disabled inclusion within the gaming industry. The organization has engaged in numerous initiatives, including hosting talks at industry events, raising millions through annual charity events, and collaborating with major studios such as Xbox and PlayStation to develop accessibility tools like the Xbox Adaptive Controller and the Access Controller. Additionally, AbleGamers has partnered with companies like Bungie for exclusive merchandise and provided consulting services to developers on implementing accessibility options in games. Despite its impactful presence, recent allegations have surfaced regarding internal mismanagement and abusive behavior from leadership.
Advocating Under Strenuous Conditions
Mark Barlet's vision for AbleGamers was to foster a community that celebrates disabled inclusion in gaming. The organization's website highlights its efforts in providing peer counseling, fostering a sense of community, and offering consulting services. However, reports from former employees paint a troubling picture. An anonymous former employee described experiencing sexist and emotionally abusive comments from Barlet during their 10-year tenure. The employee was incorrectly tasked with HR duties due to their gender and witnessed Barlet making derogatory remarks about other employees and mocking individuals with disabilities. The source also recounted instances of Barlet making sexually explicit comments, particularly targeting them during their postpartum period, which created a hostile work environment.
Toxicity Outside the Charity
Barlet's alleged toxic behavior extended beyond AbleGamers. According to sources, he frequently demeaned other accessibility advocates at industry events, suggesting a desire to monopolize the accessibility space. An anonymous advocate reported Barlet's disruptive behavior during business meetings, where he would interrupt and belittle others. Another advocate recounted Barlet's aggressive claim of ownership over the accessibility "pond," threatening to undermine their work if they did not comply with his demands.
Financial Mismanagement
As the founder and former Executive Director, Barlet's financial decisions have come under scrutiny. Despite raising millions in donations, allegations of wasteful spending emerged. Former employees cited instances of non-essential expenditures, such as first-class travel, extended hotel stays, and lavish meals for primarily remote staff. A particularly contentious purchase was a van intended for mobile services, which was deemed unnecessary during the pandemic. Additionally, Barlet's decision to install a Tesla charger at the headquarters, despite being the only one to use it, raised further concerns about misuse of funds. Internal discrepancies in salary distribution also suggested favoritism and mismanagement.
Leadership Failures
The AbleGamers board's response to these issues has been criticized for its lack of urgency and transparency. Despite warnings from a Certified Public Accountant hired as CFO about financial irregularities, the board allegedly failed to act promptly. Barlet reportedly maintained tight control over communication with the board, limiting employee access and oversight. An investigation by ADP recommended Barlet's immediate termination due to the severity of the allegations, yet the board did not act swiftly. Subsequent EEOC complaints filed by employees highlighted issues of racism, ableism, sexual harassment, and leadership failures. The board's internal investigation, conducted by a law firm with ties to AbleGamers, was questioned for its impartiality. Barlet's eventual departure in September 2024 was followed by alleged retaliation against employees who had spoken out, with several being let go in late 2024.
Barlet's Comments
After leaving AbleGamers, Barlet co-founded AccessForge, a consulting group offering accessibility services across various industries. In response to the allegations, Barlet denied claims of workplace abuse and harassment, asserting that an independent investigation found no merit to these accusations. He suggested that the timing of the allegations coincided with his efforts to reduce the workforce. Barlet also defended his financial decisions, explaining that meals and travel were justified as necessary for business and employee perks. However, he provided no evidence to support his claims, and sources disputed his explanations, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency.
For many in the disabled gaming community, AbleGamers represented a beacon of hope. Yet, the allegations of abuse, financial mismanagement, and leadership failures have cast a shadow over its mission. The impact on former employees, who once saw their roles as dream jobs, underscores the urgent need for reform and renewed commitment to the values the organization was founded upon.
