Allegations of Abuse by AbleGamers Founder Surface from Ex-Employees, Community

Since its inception in 2004, AbleGamers has been a beacon for enhancing accessibility in the gaming industry, tirelessly advocating for disabled gamers. Over nearly two decades, the organization has made significant strides, from delivering impactful talks at industry events to raising millions through annual charity events. AbleGamers has become synonymous with video game accessibility, acting as a vital resource for developers and players alike. The organization, founded by Mark Barlet, has worked closely with industry giants such as Xbox to develop the Xbox Adaptive Controller and PlayStation to create the Access Controller. They've also collaborated with Bungie on exclusive merchandise. Additionally, AbleGamers has provided consultancy services to developers, guiding them on implementing accessibility options in games. Although they have discontinued providing adaptive gaming equipment to individuals, their influence in promoting accessibility has only grown.

However, recent reports from former employees and members of the accessibility community have cast a shadow over AbleGamers' reputation. Allegations of abuse, financial mismanagement, and leadership failures have surfaced, challenging the organization's commitment to its mission.

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 services such as peer counseling, community building, and consulting for developers. Yet, behind this façade, sources claim a starkly different reality. A former employee, who remained anonymous, described a troubling work environment marked by sexist and emotionally abusive comments from Barlet. The employee, who worked there for about a decade, recounted being wrongly assigned HR duties due to her gender, despite lacking the necessary credentials. Barlet allegedly trivialized this illegal assignment, causing discomfort among staff. The source also reported instances of racism, inappropriate comments about disabilities, and sexually explicit remarks made by Barlet, which escalated over time, particularly when confronted.

Toxicity Outside the Charity

Barlet's alleged toxic behavior extended beyond AbleGamers, affecting other accessibility advocates. He reportedly belittled and threatened others in the field, seemingly aiming to monopolize accessibility resources. At industry events like The Game Accessibility Conference, he criticized other speakers and advocates, undermining their efforts and credibility. An accessibility advocate confirmed Barlet's disruptive behavior at a business meeting, where he interrupted and spoke over others. Another advocate reported Barlet's claim of ownership over the accessibility community, and a third recounted Barlet's demand for control over collaborative projects, threatening to sabotage them if refused.

Financial Mismanagement

Financial mismanagement allegations further tarnish AbleGamers' image. Despite raising millions to support disabled gamers, the charity faced scrutiny over its spending. A former employee revealed that funds were often misused for luxury expenses, such as first-class tickets, unnecessary hotel stays, and lavish meals for remote staff. The purchase of a van during the pandemic, which remained unused, and the installation of a Tesla charger at headquarters, solely for Barlet's use, were cited as examples of wasteful expenditure. Discrepancies in staff salaries also raised concerns, with allegations of favoritism and inconsistent pay scales.

Leadership Failures

The AbleGamers board's response to these issues has been criticized for its inaction. Despite warnings from a Certified Public Accountant hired as CFO about financial irregularities, the board allegedly failed to address the concerns, leading to the CFO's departure and subsequent return. Barlet's control over communication with the board prevented other staff from voicing their concerns, exacerbating the situation. An investigation by ADP recommended Barlet's immediate termination, but the board reportedly ignored these findings. Following EEOC complaints filed by employees citing racism, ableism, sexual harassment, and misogyny, the board's internal investigation was slow and lacked transparency. Barlet's eventual removal from the organization was contentious, with severance causing further employee discontent. Retaliation against those who spoke out led to several dismissals, while former leadership, including Steven Spohn, allegedly tried to silence former employees from discussing these issues.

Barlet's Comments

Barlet, now leading AccessForge with Cheryl Mitchell, denied the allegations of workplace abuse and harassment, claiming a thorough investigation found no merit to the claims. He suggested the accusations arose after he was advised to reduce the workforce. Barlet justified expenditures on meals and extended hotel stays as necessary for business meetings and donor relations. He also defended first-class travel as part of an approved policy, citing his disability as a reason for such accommodations. However, sources dispute these claims, highlighting a lack of transparency and evidence from Barlet to refute the allegations.

For many, AbleGamers represented a positive force in the gaming community, advocating for better accessibility. Yet, the allegations of leadership failures and financial mismanagement have deeply affected those who believed in its mission. The first source lamented the destruction of their dream job, reflecting the personal toll of the organization's internal struggles.