In a world filled with screens and digital distractions, one local partnership is helping people reconnect face-to-face. American Mahjong, Blue Star Families Greater Fayetteville Region and Pine & Tiles are helping military families and community members discover new friendships and strengthen local connections. "Mahj for a Cause,” held on June 6, offered participants an opportunity to learn the game, compete in a friendly tournament and support military families served by Blue Star Families.
According to Tate Johnson, Executive Director of the Greater Fayetteville Region Chapter of Blue Star Families, the partnership aligns perfectly with the organization's mission of building connections among military families.
"Military families are built on connection in the face of distance, transition and time apart," Johnson said. "Mahjong offers something that travels with you. Once you learn it, you can play it anywhere."
The event featured a beginner-friendly Mahjong 101 class for those new to the game, while experienced players participated in a Social Tournament featuring three rounds of play. Tournament winners received prizes, and raffle drawings were held throughout the day.
"Technology plays such a big role in our lives today, and mahjong creates an opportunity for people to connect in an analog way," Johnson said. "There are no screens just people gathering around a table."
That opportunity for genuine connection appears to be one reason the game is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Participants are drawn not only to the strategy and challenge of Mahjong, but also to the social interaction it creates.
"People are craving something tactile, social and unplugged," Johnson said. "Mahjong checks all those boxes."
One of the most unique aspects of Pine & Tiles is its inclusivity. Players of all ages and backgrounds regularly gather around the table, from young adults looking for a new hobby to longtime players reconnecting with a game they remember from childhood.
"There really is no typical Pine & Tiles player," Johnson said. "That's the point. We've built a community where everyone is welcome."
For many participants, the friendships formed around the Mahjong table become just as meaningful as the game itself.
"When you're learning something new together, you make mistakes, ask questions and celebrate each other's wins," Johnson said. "That shared experience becomes a shortcut to real friendship."
The sessions are intentionally designed to be welcoming for beginners. After completing Mahjong 101, players can participate in Guided Play sessions that provide real-time support and encouragement.
"We want the path from beginner to confident player to feel supported every step of the way," Johnson said.
For military families, that sense of belonging can be especially valuable. Frequent moves and deployments often make it difficult to establish lasting social connections. Mahjong provides a portable activity and a ready-made community wherever military life may lead. Blue Star Families sees programs like this as an important way to reduce isolation and strengthen support networks throughout the region. Looking ahead, Pine & Tiles plans to continue expanding through new locations, partnerships and charitable events.
"Mahj for a Cause is just the beginning of how we want to use mahjong as a vehicle for good," Johnson said.
For anyone interested in learning the game, Johnson's advice is simple: "Just show up. You don't need to know anything, know anyone or bring anything. We'll teach you everything you need to know."
Sometimes all it takes is one game to spark a new hobby and maybe even a lifelong friendship.
Community members can stay connected with upcoming events by following Pine & Tiles on Instagram at @pineandtiles or on Facebook at facebook.com/pineandtiles. The organization also offers Summer Passes, including 12 open-play events across Lumberton and Fayetteville for $100 or six events in the Southern Pines and Pinehurst area for $80. Additional information is available at linktr.ee/PineTiles or by emailing lumbertonmahj@gmail.com.