Chicago Chess Foundation Information

The Chicago Chess Foundation’s (CCF) mission is to give all children of Chicago—with a focus on lower-income communities—the opportunity to learn, play, and compete in Chess at no cost. Through 2024, we’ve served over 10,000 kids and teens, hosted 75 youth Chess tournaments and facilitated 15 summer camps — all at no cost to families. We believe that Chess is a catalyst for profound change in the lives of youth and their families, contributing to the betterment of the Chicago community. Our initiatives utilize Chess as a vehicle to transmit intangible academic, social-emotional, and leadership development skills.