Brooklyn Chess: Building Community, Educating Children & Employing Youth

Create a Brooklyn-wide Chess Education, Youth Employment, and Community Building Initiative. Using existing schools, libraries, and community centers, provide accessible chess instruction, intergenerational chess clubs, neighborhood tournaments, and family chess events. Train and employ local teenagers and young adults as paid teaching assistants, mentors, and event organizers. Through chess, bring children, parents, seniors, and neighbors together while developing critical thinking, leadership, job skills, and stronger community relationships.

Many Brooklyn neighborhoods need more affordable youth enrichment, meaningful employment opportunities, and activities that bring residents together. Children need safe spaces to learn and develop confidence; teenagers need paid work experience and mentorship; and families and seniors need opportunities to connect across generations. This initiative addresses these needs through chess education, youth employment, neighborhood chess clubs, and community events. It will help reduce social isolation, strengthen neighborhood relationships, and build a greater sense of belonging throughout Brooklyn.

Youth (under 24)

Older Adults (65 +)

Parents