our programs
Bring the Power of Chess to Your Community.
Queens Gambit offers a range of programs that use chess as a tool to unlock strategic thinking, leadership, and lifelong skills in youth. Whether you're a school, a community organization, a student leader, or a family - there’s a way to get involved.
For organizations
partner with us
Expand Access. Empower Youth. Build Strategic Futures.
Queens Gambit partners with schools, libraries, community centers, and youth-serving organizations to bring high-quality, chess-based programming to students across Western Pennsylvania and beyond. Together, we’re creating safe, engaging, and enriching spaces where youth - especially those from historically underfunded and marginalized communities - can learn, grow, and lead.
In-School & Out-of-School-Time Programs
Our programs are designed to meet students where they are - whether that’s during the school day or after the final bell rings.
Out-of-School-Time (OST):
Each quarter (winter, spring, and fall), we deliver consistent, high-quality enrichment at approximately 10 partner sites, offering sessions two to three times per week between 4–6 PM. These programs focus on chess education, strategic thinking, leadership development, and mentorship - all in a fun, inclusive environment.
In-School Programs:
We also collaborate with schools to integrate chess into the school day. Whether as part of advisory, enrichment blocks, or as a standalone leadership curriculum, our in-school offerings help reinforce classroom learning while building resilience, focus, and decision-making skills.
Our programs are tailored for grades 2 through 12, with specialized opportunities for middle and high school students (grades 8–12) to take on mentorship and leadership roles.
RECENT PARTNERSHIPS
A FEW ORGANIZATIONS WE’VE COLLABORATED WITH.
Queens Gambit is proud to partner with schools and community organizations to deliver high-quality chess programs during the school day and after school - empowering youth through strategy, leadership, and play.
For YOUTH
work with us
Grow your leadership skills. Make your next move.
Next Move Leaders is Queens Gambit’s youth leadership and workforce development initiative, designed for young people in grades 8–12 and early postsecondary students. This program provides youth with the opportunity to grow as educators, mentors, and changemakers - while earning compensation for their time and contributions.
Participants receive comprehensive training in chess instruction, classroom management, public speaking, and strategic leadership. Once trained, they lead programming at our partner sites, serving as positive role models for younger youth and helping expand access to high-quality enrichment opportunities.
Through this experience, youth gain valuable skills, build meaningful relationships with mentors and peers, and deepen their impact in their own communities. Whether they are new to chess or experienced players, all are supported in their growth as both players and leaders.
Next Move Leaders helps youth build confidence, develop real-world skills, and step into their full potential - on and off the board.
For Families
Learn with us
If your child is interested in learning chess, we’d love to hear from you! While most of our programs are offered through our partner schools and community organizations, we occasionally host community-based classes that are open to the public. We also offer private lessons and small group sessions year-round. Because our free-standing classes are limited, the best way to get involved is to reach out directly - we’re happy to help you find the right opportunity for your child to start their chess journey.