Chess for Success shifts to online tournaments, fundraiser
PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- This March, Chess for Success canceled the Oregon State Chess Tournament due to the pandemic. The cancellation was a financial blow to the organization and a disappointment to the community.
With the quarantine being the new reality for many of us, Chess for Success is shifting their focus to providing online programming for their kids.
Beginning on Friday, April 10th, closed online tournaments were held on Lichess.org, an open source chess platform used by players ranging from rookies to masters.
This will in no way replace the State Tournament, it’s just for fun. Participants are still being gathered through coaches and parents, with an expectation of at least 20 players per tournament. There will be certificates and gift cards for the top players.
Although this is a new direction for Chess for Success, having online chess capabilities will allow participants time to practice and spend time with their chess community, if only virtually.
Chess for Success was also forced to cancel their annual spring Game Changer Luncheon, and are pivoting to an online fundraiser, Game Changer Week 2020. This will be a week-long fundraiser April 20th through the 24th utilizing social media platforms. We will share the stories of our community and invite our supporters to do the same. Follow our social media feeds as we share the impact we have in the lives of students around the state. Chess not only has learning benefits; it also gives kids a place to belong.
Matching funds and raffle prizes including dinner with Diego Valeri of the Portland Timbers, will be available to donors. We need your support now more than ever. Please follow:
Facebook: @ChessForSuccess
Twitter: @Chess4Success
Instagram: @chessforsuccess
Website: chessforsuccess.org
Chess for Success, a nonprofit provider of Chess Clubs in 104 Oregon and Washington schools. The program began in 1992 with 12 schools in Portland Public Schools. We serve over 3,000 kids in chess clubs, and another 1,500 kids in tournaments.
