HARNESS THE POWER OF CHESS.

Introduction

QUEENS GAMBIT ELEVATES A NEW GENERATION OF STRATEGIC, INCLUSIVE, AND CIVICALLY-MINDED LEADERS THROUGH THE POWER OF CHESS. 

Since 2014, we have used chess as an influential tactic in building the next generation of leaders. Founded in 2014 on the belief that chess offers captivating and meaningful learning opportunities that transform the way in which youth can acquire knowledge, develop their thinking abilities, and engage with the world, we serve approximately 2,000 youth, grades 2-12, per year. Our program sites are located in the underserved communities and reach young women and girls and students of color, who predominantly fall in areas on or below the poverty line. 

Reviews

“At The Heyward House, we are proud to partner with Queens Gambit and witness its positive impact on children through its chess program."

Seeing the development of young minds as they learn to strategize and think critically while enjoying the game of chess is heartwarming. The Queens Gambit chess program nurtures their cognitive abilities and fosters essential life skills such as patience, concentration, and sportsmanship. To see children flourish under the guidance of this wonderful initiative is why we chose to support Queens Gambit's dedication to empowering young individuals through the game of chess.

Charlotte Heyward, Executive Director of the Heyward House/Cam Heyward Foundation

"The Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania exists to help kids reach their potential and that is why we value our partnership with Queens Gambit.”

And their innovative chess-based programming is focused on developing a new generation of leaders. We are grateful for the collaborate spirit of Ashley and the Queens Gambit Board, as their creative approach engages kids through the power of chess to accelerate our mission.

Christopher Watts, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania

“Ever since I was young, Chess has always been a magical game for me.”

When I first moved to Pittsburgh, I discovered the Queens Gambit Chess Institute through a program they were doing at my local library. After that, I began to take classes through the Institute. I loved the lessons because it was evident that the instructors loved the game itself and teaching it. Now, I am a youth instructor because I wish to inspire more people to be involved with chess so they can feel that same magic that I felt when I first played.

Sonia Palit, Youth Instructor

Testimonials

WHO WE ARE

FOUNDED BY CHESS CHAMP ASHLEY LYNN PRIORe

Ashley began playing competitive chess at the age of four. By the time she was eight, she was already teaching others and quickly realized the inaccessibility of chess. When she was 14, she founded Queens Gambit to ensure youth had access to the powers of chess. Today, Queens Gambit stands as a prominent model for fostering community through the game of chess. Ashley put Pittsburgh on the map as a chess powerhouse.

how we serve

EMPOWERING YOUTH TO RECOGNIZE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL 

We utilize our unique chess curriculum to impart crucial life skills through programs, partnerships, and advocacy. Seamlessly integrating the World Health Organization’s top 10 essential life skills, our curriculum empowers youth to excel academically and in life. Prioritizing social-emotional learning, our activities aim to cultivate skills extending beyond the chessboard.

  • We collaborate with organizations that align with our principles and operate within, or offer services to, communities that have historically been marginalized or underfunded. We provide customized, in-person programs for grades 1st through 8th, after the school day (Monday-Friday, 4-6pm) or during school breaks. We also provide summer programs.

  • Our programs are led by youth instructors, grades 8-12 or college, interested in educational development and nonprofit leadership. Instructors received a stipend, mentorship from Queens Gambit staff, and the opportunity to work with a partner of their choice to provide enriching programming.

  • Chess continues to be a white, male-dominated game. At Queens Gambit, we strive to shed light on the sexism women encounter and advocate for safer, more inclusive environments.

our vision

WE ENVISION AN EQUITABLE COMMUNITY WHERE THOUGHTFUL, INTENTIONAL, AND INCLUSIVE LEADERS SOLVE SOCIETY’S BIGGEST OBSTACLES.

All the details

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October 1-8, 2024

CELEBRATE THE POWER OF CHESS

Join Queens Gambit for a special celebration during Chess Week in Pittsburgh.

More details coming soon...