BAY AREA CHESS INC

Mission: Provide everyone with enjoyable activities that develop intellectual, mathematical, analytical, visual, & personal skills. Motto: "Transforming lives through chess."

BayAreaChess started as a parent volunteer organization when our founder’s son moved to a school with a low-quality, high-cost commercial program. Our work was so successful other parents requested programs at their schools. We quickly evolved from a local chess club into a truly professional organization by applying sound business practices to support our rapid growth. We disrupted chess enrichment, transforming chess coaching from part-time contract gig to viable career as employees w/ benefits & HR support. While COVID suspended/closed chess clubs nationwide, we pioneered online offerings & grew. After 15 years, we are one of the most successful chess organizations in the US & the foremost 501(c)(3) non-profit chess organization on the West Coast. Still, our core values remain unchanged: treat all children like we would treat our own.

We employ the largest professional coaching staff, capitalize on the diverse talents of our volunteers, organize tournaments across Northern California, operate clubs/teams @the highest levels, & provide quality chess coaching from rookies to masters.

Named 2018 Chess Club of the Year by the US Chess Federation, BayAreaChess is the #1 USCF affiliate west of Texas for more than 15 years running (2008-2024).